“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” – Pablo Picasso
Art is a powerful form of expression that reaches deep into the recesses of our imagination and taps into our creativity. And for those living with Memory Loss, art has been proven to be an effective tool in unlocking long-forgotten memories and improving their overall quality of life. This is why art therapy has emerged as a potent and multidimensional tool in Memory Care environments. Tailored art therapy programs give hope, provide a creative outlet, and meet the emotional and psychological needs of those living with Memory Loss.
Understanding Memory Loss
Memory loss encompasses a range of conditions, from mild cognitive impairment to severe dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being one of the most prevalent. Its symptoms differ but often include memory impairment, changes in behaviour, and a decline in cognitive function. There are various stages of Memory Loss that can make it difficult for individuals to communicate and impair their ability to perform daily living activities.
What Is Art Therapy in Memory Care?
Art therapy, when used in a Memory Care setting, can help individuals express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a therapeutic context. This form of self-expression is designed to foster cognitive, emotional, and social well-being through creative engagement and it is often tailored to the person’s abilities, needs, and preferences. As with all memory care therapies, the goal of art therapy is to enhance the quality of life of those living with Memory Loss while providing a joyful experience.
Benefits of Art Therapy in Memory Care
The benefits of art therapy in memory care are as varied and rich as the artworks produced through it. From cognitive enhancements to emotional support, the diverse outcomes contribute significantly to the overall health of participants.
Cognitive Benefits
Structured and unstructured art therapy has been found to enhance cognitive functions such as memory, problem-solving, and pattern recognition through stimulation of the neural pathways of the brain. Engaging in artistic activities can stimulate neural pathways, promoting brain health and, for some, even slowing the progression of cognitive decline.
Emotional Benefits
The act of creating art provides a powerful outlet for self-expression and emotional processing. Art therapy has been proven to be a supportive tool in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression by providing a way to communicate emotions. This can be particularly rewarding for individuals living with Memory Loss, who may find verbal communication challenging.
Social Benefits
Art therapy sessions create environments ripe for social interaction and connection. For those who may feel isolated due to Memory Loss, these sessions offer platforms to engage with peers, build a sense of community, and communicate non-verbally, fostering a feeling of belonging and support.
How Art Therapy Works in Memory Care
The integration of art therapy into a memory care environment must be thoughtful and strategic. This includes not just the incorporation of art activities within regular programs but also the creation of aesthetic, calming spaces that invite participation and provide comfort.
Art therapy is a person-centred methodology focused on improving the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of a person living with Memory Loss. Art therapy uses a variety of techniques, from simple drawing and painting to sculpting and more complex multi-media projects.
The approach is person-centered, focusing on the unique needs and capabilities of each individual, allowing for non-verbal expression to take centre stage in the communication process. The role of a trained art therapist is irreplaceable in creating a safe and supportive space where these creative processes can unfold.
Art therapy should always be conducted by a professional art therapist who has the experience, understanding, and formal training required to work with individuals living with Memory Loss. They must be adept at working with individuals whose cognitive abilities vary, adjusting their techniques and expectations accordingly. Above all, they must embody patience and compassion, recognizing the value of the process over the product.
Used in conjunction with other therapies, and in coordination with the recommended medical and psychological care programs, qualified art therapists can introduce art to enhance the multisensory experience.
Challenges and Considerations
Though the benefits of art therapy in memory care are significant, there are challenges to address. As with all programs designed for Memory Care, there can be specific limitations with art therapy.
People struggling with hearing loss, impaired vision, or diminished motor skills may have a reduced desire to participate in art therapies because they may not be able to appreciate the experience.
In these incidents, art therapists can develop tailored programs using assistive tools such as earphones, ergonomic equipment, and magnifiers to enhance the experience. Encouragement, instructions, and positive communication can help draw interest in the project. Art therapy is intended to immerse the person into the creative process, not focus on the technicalities of the final result.
Psychological and social barriers can also pose challenges, especially if those living with Memory Loss are dealing with feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Whether the session is with a group or one-on-one with an art therapist, those living with Memory Loss may not have the confidence to contribute to the therapy.
Addressing these challenges requires facilities to not only invest in training for their staff but also to foster a culture that values the outcomes of art therapy. Ongoing assessment and the proper evaluation metrics are needed to capture the nuanced benefits that art therapy provides.
Experience the Transformative Power of Art Therapy at Memory & Company
As the world’s first Respite Hotel, Memory & Company has dedicated Memory Care programs to enhance the quality of life of those living with a form of Memory Loss. Our Team Members are educated and experienced in compassionate and comprehensive care in all fields relating to Memory Care.
We invite you to schedule a complimentary tour of our Markham and Oakville Memory Care settings to learn how our art therapy programs have helped improve our Members’ cognitive and social well-being.
Contact us today at (905) 888-8808 or drop us a message at info@memoryandcompany.com
