Planet Alzheimer’s: Film, Poetry, and the Human Spirit with Mary Crescenzo

Welcome to a special episode of the AlzAuthors podcast, part of our first-ever Film Festival! Celebrating our 10th anniversary, host Marianne Sciucco sits down with acclaimed arts educator, author, and filmmaker Mary Crescenzo to explore the transformative role of the arts in dementia care.

In this heartfelt conversation, Mary shares her journey from early experiences in nursing homes to the creation of her poetic play-turned-film, "Planet A." We discuss her innovative, age-blind casting, the real-life stories inspiring her work, and practical strategies caregivers can use to bring arts engagement into dementia care—at home or in care facilities.

Whether you’re navigating Alzheimer’s in your family, working in dementia care, or seeking creative approaches to foster dignity and connection, this episode is filled with inspiring insights and actionable tips.

Key Topics Covered:

• Dementia Care & the Arts: Mary describes how music, visual art, dance, storytelling, and poetry can spark joy, communication, and connection for people living with dementia.
• How the Arts Can Reduce Isolation: Real examples showing that engaging in the arts can counteract boredom, boost mood, and foster community in care settings.
• Art Activities for Caregivers: Practical advice and encouragement for caregivers to use arts engagement at home—even if you don’t see yourself as an artist!
• Readings from the Film: Moving excerpts from Mary’s poetry, capturing the emotional landscape of people living with dementia and their caregivers.

Quotes:

• “Everyone should be engaged in the arts to whatever level, because it’s so beneficial to heart and mind and life.” – Mary Crescenzo
• “Boredom is huge. People decline when they’re bored. But you give them something creative, they light up.” – Marianne Sciucco
• “You don’t have to be an artist to make a difference – just pick up a pencil, sing together, or sway to music.” - Mary Crescenzo

Takeaways:

• Try simple creative activities—drawing, music, singing, storytelling—regularly, not just once.
• Don’t let fear or “not being an artist” stop you. The benefits are in doing, not perfection.
• Engaging in the arts brings meaning, dignity, and even joy to those living with dementia.
• The arts can transform not only the person with dementia but also relieve and uplift caregivers.
• Seek out support, community, and inspiration—you are not alone!

 

Resources and Links:

• Watch "Planet A" – available until year-end on YouTube. Register at AlzAuthors.com to receive link
• Buy Mary Crescenzo’s Book: "The Planet Alzheimer’s Guide – 8 Ways the Arts Can Transform the Life of Your Loved One and Your Own" on Amazon
• Visit AlzAuthors Website for a wealth of caregiver resources
• Learn about Creative Writing Workshops for Caregivers: Contact Mary Crescenzo
• Subscribe to our Podcast: Available on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeartRadio and more.
• Follow AlzAuthors on Social: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter/X and Blue Sky for daily support, book recommendations, and community stories.

Don’t miss our continuing film festival—visit our website for upcoming screenings, panel discussions, and more creative resources for the dementia journey.

If you found this episode helpful, subscribe, share, and leave us a review! For more stories and support, visit alzauthors.com.

Meet the Moderators

Marianne Sciucco

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