Art therapy

A lot more is being understood in the care for a dementia patient and a big effort is being made to focus care on and around the patient, while understanding who they are, what their hobbies are or were and what their personal history is. The fact that so many sensory activities are shown to be beneficial in the provision of dementia care is elevating the level of care that is being offered to dementia patients. That continued education of dementia carers and dementia care environments means that they are more prepared for sensory and alternative therapies that can support patients communication (both verbal and non). We cover a range of alternative therapies, from music therapy here, knitting and sensory activities here. All of these therapies can help dementia patients to live meaningful lives, and supports being treated as a person, rather than the disease. 

Why art therapy?

Art therapy may be of particular benefit to a patient who has always had a passion for arts and crafts, or enjoyed taking part in them. It may also be beneficial to a patient with a creative eye for detail. Why not give some of these activities as try and see how the patient responds. As with other sensory activities, art is one of those that can support patients who may struggle with verbal communication, and it might help to elicit a response and engagement from the patient. 

These activities can help to keep the dementia patient occupied and active. It can increase their engagement and brain function as well as being an enjoyable activity to take part in. It may also contribute to reducing stress levels and anxiety in the patient. This may reduce disruptive behaviours or lessen episodes such as sundowning.  It also has the benefit of increasing the dementia patient’s social engagement with other patients or people around them. Although there is no conclusive evidence that art therapy has a lasting impact on the dementia patient’s symptoms, it does positively impact some patients wellbeing and it is thought that continuing to encourage dementia patients to be sociable, can reduce the onset of later symptoms.

Activities to take part in 

Art therapy for patients can include anything from painting and colouring in to making crafts such as designing cards or using model clay. Craft activities that use a range of materials, can also have a sensory benefit from touch and feel of materials and fabrics. These activities can encourage dexterity, while using certain muscles within the hands and arms. It also encourages the patient to use certain areas of their brain and can be an enjoyable way to spend time doing something interesting.

There are many adult colouring books available these days, often available as part of therapy to support anxiety, depression or stress. These may contain patterns, swirls and flower designs. Alternatives to these may be creative colouring of pictures of flowers, animals or scenes that may have a link to the patient. 

Art therapy provides activities that the dementia patient and their caregiver or family can take part in it with them. So it is a good activity that can be carried out together and helps to create a level of closeness and engagement. 

Take a look at some of our sensory items in our shop here.