Art provides individuals with a way to express themselves, often without words. In fact, this method of non-verbal communication has been successfully used for a number of years to treat a wide variety of disorders, including dementia. With the help of art, the patient’s quality of life can improve and their creative mind is enhanced. The benefits are far-reaching and there are no drawbacks, making this the perfect choice for many.

Communication

One way art can be of benefit for patients with dementia is it allows them to express things that may otherwise be locked away as a result of their disease. With the help of art, these memories, thoughts, and feelings may often be accessed. As a result, caregivers are better able to provide the care that specific individual needs. This is only one of many reasons more memory care facilities are now using art therapy as part of their regular program.

The ability to express themselves is likewise of great benefit to the resident. They find they can interact with the world, which is very rewarding as they have been struggling to do so. The feeling of accomplishment a dementia patient gets when creating art is powerful. While it cannot reverse the person’s dementia, it does help with their quality of life and no medication is involved. Many families find art therapy to be of great comfort to them for this reason alone.

Behavioral Challenges Decline

Dementia patients often become agitated, and art therapy can be of great help in keeping them calm. They engage with others more often, and functional improvements are often seen. Some patients even begin to gain weight when they begin creating art and mobility often increases. The patient and caregiver experience less stress as a result and the dementia patient could even become more verbal. Thanks to these positive changes, the patient’s mood may also improve. This is of great help to those patients who are suffering from depression, anxiety or another mental issue.

Finding the Right Art Activity

One thing to keep in mind is the art activity needs to be geared to adults. If the craft or project is too juvenile, the patient might feel demeaned. Talk with the patient as they are engaging in the activity, as this allows them to discuss what they are creating and they might be able to recall previously lost memories. Don’t hesitate to assist the patient if needed also. Keep in mind that patient safety has to be the top priority. Never give a dementia patient a sharp tool or toxic materials, as they may unintentionally be used improperly. Finally, be sure to follow the patient’s lead and stop the project at any time. If it isn’t completed, that is okay. Any activity is better than none at all.

If you have a loved one suffering from dementia, don’t hesitate to incorporate art activities into their regular schedule. Try a number of activities to discover the one they enjoy the most. If this individual is to be placed in a memory care facility, make certain art therapy is offered. The key is to activate different parts of the brain the patient may otherwise be unable to access. This type of therapy accomplishes this goal and helps the patient make improvements that might otherwise be impossible. That’s the most important thing to remember.