Art Brings Purpose and Joy to Individuals with Dementia

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” – Edgar Degas

We love this quote because it captures the power of art to reveal that which makes each of us unique. This makes the creation of artwork especially beneficial for individuals living with dementia.

A good example of this can be found in an article published in the National Institutes of Health, which notes several instances where artists developed a depth of emotional expression in their art after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease that was lacking in earlier work. Many well-known artists have continued to produce fine artwork in the years since being diagnosed with dementia. That, by the way, includes many of our Anthem Memory Care community residents who were commercial artists in their earlier years.

And there are many benefits to engaging in art activities for individuals with dementia, including the following:

• Helps reduce anxiety. Expressing oneself through art can have a calming effect, which can reduce stress.
• Stimulates the brain. The act of working with brushes, pencils, or hands to create art can enhance cognition.
• Encourages socialization and engagement. When creating art or crafting in an art class, an individual is more apt to converse with others and share their thoughts.
• Increases a sense of self-worth. Finishing a piece of art is a purposeful activity which gives an individual as sense of accomplishment which can improve their self-esteem.

At our Anthem Memory Care communities, we celebrate the artist in all our residents. We are continually impressed by the patience and care residents take with art projects and by the pride they show in their finished pieces.

Several of our communities participate in a program called Memories in the Making, a unique fine arts program originally created by The Alzheimer’s Association for individuals with dementia. It offers a creative, non-verbal way of communicating and capturing precious moments through art.

Below are just a few beautiful examples of the artwork produced through this program at Highline Place Memory Care in Littleton, Colorado:

Aren’t these amazing? And this is just a sample!

If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, why not explore some art projects together? The Alzheimer’s Association has some tips to make your artistic endeavors more enjoyable. They include the following:

• Help them get started. Have the brushes or other tools out and ready for use.
• Avoid childish art activities. Keep the project on an adult level.
• Engage in conversation while you work. Ask your loved one what they are working on.
• Take your time! There is no need to complete a project. Enjoy the process.

If you are interested in engaging your loved one in an art project and have some questions, please feel free to reach out to any of our Anthem Memory Care communities. We conduct regular art activities with our residents and would be happy to share our experiences and offer some tips to help you and your loved one experience the joy of creating art together.

(Our header image shows part of the Memories in the Making art display at Highline Place Memory Care. The public was invited in and everyone enjoyed exploring the residents’ artwork.)