9 Valuable Ways Art Therapy Benefits Loved Ones with Dementia
Memory care specialists at The National Institutes of Health (NIH) confirm that ‘holistic
therapy’ involving art has the power to improve the quality of life for your loved one by
stimulating self-expression, social engagement and a connection with the outside world.
In her article, “Alzheimer’s Stops Where Creativity Begins,” Memory Care Education
Specialist Angela Lunde of the Mayo Clinic discusses how art improves the emotional health
of loved ones with dementia while increasing their cognitive functioning.
“Art,” she says, “has the ability to alter the mind, affect our behavior, emotions and our
relationships with others…For people living with Alzheimer's disease, this truly is important.”
Art therapy offers a variety of benefits for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias including:
1. Rekindled Relationships – Art therapy activities stimulate communication and
encouragement between the caregiver and the loved one with dementia, which help to
create connections and benefit each of them.
2. Reduced Stress & Anxiety – Art serves as a valuable outlet for people with dementia.
Working on a creative art project allows them to express the thoughts and emotions they
otherwise have trapped inside.
3. Decreased Agitation & Aggressiveness – Art therapy helps to improve a loved one’s
mood. While making art, their attention and energy are focused on something positive,
rather than the frustrating symptoms of their dementia.
4. Increased Communication – Art therapy has an inherent topic for conversation. Caregivers
and loved ones can talk about the art itself or past experiences. Even if it’s difficult for a
loved one to carry on a conversation, painting or drawing can act as a form of
communication on its own.
5. Enhanced Memory & Reminiscence – Art has the power to tap into memories that still
exist. Loved ones with dementia will often choose a subject for their art that is important to
them, such as a beloved pet, favorite place or cherished pastime.
6. Increased Self-Image & Sense of Accomplishment – Art therapy gives loved ones the
chance to create and accomplish something on their own, which, when Alzheimer’s has
taken so much away, can work wonders for a loved one’s attitude. They can turn their
stories into a visual work of art and be proud of their accomplishments.
7. Improved Attention Span – Art therapy has been shown to increase the ability to focus in
persons with dementia. The engaging nature of art helps hold to their attention on the
project they’re creating.
8. Reduced Isolation – Working on an art project allows for social engagement with the
caregiver providing the therapy. It gives them an opportunity to interact with others through
creating and sharing the artwork they make.
9. Awakened Interest & Curiosity – When prompted to make art, a loved one with dementia
is encouraged to think of a subject and act on creative impulses. A caregiver might also
suggest a type of art that’s unfamiliar to the loved one, which can get them excited to try
something new.
If you’d like to offer art activities to a loved one at home, the Alzheimer’s Association article,
“Music, Art and Alzheimer's,” provides helpful tips to help you get you started.
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Disclaimer: The articles and tip sheets on this website are offered by Heartis Village for general
informational and educational purposes and do not constitute legal or medical advice. For legal or
medical advice, please contact your attorney or physician.