Treasure for Alzheimer's: Reflecting on experiences with the art of Lester E. Potts, Jr.

Despite the typical loss of memory and verbal skills in persons with Alzheimer’s disease or other Dementias, Treasure for Alzheimer’s clearly shows that art often reaches below the conscious level of existence to a hidden depth of meaning stored within. Dr. Richard Morgan used the art of Lester E. Potts, Jr., painted in the throes of Alzheimer’s disease, to communicate and develop relationships with residents in a residential care facility who were similarly affected. This may well be the first time the art of a lay person with Alzheimer’s has been used therapeutically with people who have the same disease or related Dementias. The amazing results show how connections and relationships were forged which formerly did not exist, and give hope to caregivers and others who seek to know the identities still deeply present inside each of us despite the loss of cognition.