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Last week, the column was about the power of music. This week, the power of art.
Art has been used for centuries to help people express what they cannot put into words. Now, and over the past 10 years, art is increasingly being used to help people with Alzheimer's disease. The process of making art, and appreciating art, not only may be helpful to anyone with Alzheimer's disease, but to those who care for them as well.
I am so far out of the "kid" game that I am unaware if art and music classes are still being offered in all grades of school. I know at one time, it was a discussion to remove these classes due to budget restrictions, staffing loss, etc. Fine arts should remain part of the curriculum in all grades of school. I have amazing memories of music class at Jennings Randolph Elementary School...thanks to Linda Wagner. Linda lived and breathed music and music appreciation and I taught myself how to play the piano because I loved how she played... and this past Sunday, I was blessed to hear her in the choir (and a duo) at the First United Methodist Church. It brought back all the feels. I also loved art class, but I never had the ability to create in that realm. I wanted to but my talent was lacking and I have always blamed that on being left handed -- haha.
So how does one connect art to those who have Alzheimer's disease?
Best tips: Set up a little art study, and this can be as minor as a table with different drawing items, crayons, pencils, colored pencils, paper, kids scissors, Elmer's glue, etc., all the way to an easel with paint and brushes. I guess this mostly depends on how capable the caregiver is and how accepting the Alzheimer's person is.
I know some caregivers who have a pottery wheel and others who make bracelets and necklaces with their loved ones. Again, up to you and the stage of Alzheimer's one may be in. If sitting down and working on art projects causes agitation, it may not be the right project, or the best activity for the loved one based on the stage they may be in, or it may just not be the right day.
The feelings toward art projects may come and go. I would recommend talking about it as something fun and entertaining. If the resident does not seem interested, they may enjoy watching you create something. During this time, you could have some great reminiscing with your loved one.
I absolutely love paint by numbers (at this I am successful), adult coloring books, puzzles, and diamond painting. I know I would love to do these activities with my grandchildren. I look forward to the day Oliver, and hopefully many more grandchildren, want to do this with Lollie! Having grandchildren around to do this with a loved one would be a great way to introduce them into the world of art appreciation. People who suffer from memory loss love to have children around.
A great project would be to create Christmas Cards or holiday artwork to hang on display or to give out to others at the holidays. I hope Art will make it's way into your life and create an atmosphere of fun and excitement.