ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the efficacy of arts interventions in dementia care, with particular consideration given to how the employment of the arts in health supports person-centred care and facilitates methods to enhance memory preservation. The pioneering work of the late Tom Kitwood, articulated in theories of person centered care and personhood. The chapter begins with a brief acknowledgement of the key features of dementia, understood as a medical condition, and the practical consequences of this approach, with an eye specifically to the British context. Following an overview of the development and role of the creative arts in health care, and notes on person-centred care, identity and memory, two forms of artistic practice Reminiscence Theatre and Imaginary theatre come into focus. The chapter argues on the basis of the case study considered that the emergent, original form of Imaginary theatre has clear potential to play a very useful role in enabling and supporting person-centred care and progressive sociological care strategies.
