The majority of seniors can reap great benefits from engaging in different art forms, and some may improve their quality of life through doing art therapy. Taking part in artistic activities and engaging in therapeutic processes with art are both valuable but in unique ways.

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Art projects can create a sense of accomplishment and purpose. They can provide the person with dementia an opportunity for self-expression. As patients bypass language barriers, they are able to express themselves through their artwork. Just like music, art appears to influence a number of neural regions and when art therapy is introduced, it’s as if patients can reroute communication pathways. In turn, they are able to once again, interact with the world around them.

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Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can strip an individual of their identity and lust for life, but with art therapy, patients are able to achieve a unique sense of accomplishment — and that in itself, is extremely powerful. Of course, this therapy will not reverse the effects of one’s condition, but it can significantly improve quality of life.

• Reduced agitation

• Increased positive emotional responses

• Functional improvements

• Potential weight gain

• Increased mobility

• Increased food intake

• Improvements in verbal fluency

• Improved mood and attention

• Aid in relaxation, anxiety, and depression

• Give feelings of control

• Improve communication and socialization

• Encourage humor and playfulness

• Improve cognition

• Offers sensory stimulation

• Foster a strong sense of identity

• Bolster self-esteem