Alternative Therapies are being used in hospitals and nursing centers across the country. One therapy is proving successful with memory-impared patients in our area. "She is so pretty." Joan LaPrarie is one of many caring for a baby doll. At Live Oak Retirement Community, Doll Therapy is being used to comfort those with Alzheimer's and different types of Dementia. "In the later stages of Alzheimer's there is a flat emotion. Now, they can have something to love and feel love and that makes all the difference," said Chaplain Mickie Cowan. The dolls are given to residents in the late stages of memory impairment. "It brings them back into the main stream of life and gives them a purpose in their live," said Nurse Janice Latvala. Cowan brought the alternative therapy to Live Oak, she says the "Dolls" are very much alive. "We don't mention the word "Doll". These are real to them." Residents clothe, feed and care for their little ones. And those with speaking and communication problems are responding with "baby in arm". And residents rest at ease, cuddling their baby, without fear. "We try to bring people back to a time in their life when they were happy," said Cowan. Memories for these residents are usually filled with children and motherhood. " At home I have four, no five, let's see three girls and a boy, " said Resident, Joan LaPrarie. Joy replaces sorrow and confusion with the help of a playroom favorite. " It is the sweetest thing in the world," said Resident, Frances Cowger. Doll Therapy can be done with patients at home. Just make sure the doll has a mouth with no opening and clean clothes. Cowan says to keep some wipes handy, to keep the doll clean. Live Oak will accept donations of life-like plastic dolls and clothing. For more information on Doll Therapy or donating call 318-797-1900.