Abstract
The needfor inclusion and afeeling of belonging are powerful. These needs can be met by participation in a group activity that has been designed to enhance the Alzheimer's patients' intact abilities, and help re-establish a positive self-image with a real sense of autonomy. In turn, this can strengthen the perception of identity in the Alzheimer's patient. Responsive well plannedparallelprogramming aims at giving these individuals alternative means of fulfilling their needs. The ideal activity for dementia patients counteracts the two greatest threats to these individuals: helplessness and hopelessness. A therapeutic care approach with the goals of enabling the patients to regain a sense of mastery over their lives is a challenge that can be met.
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