Art Therapy helps Alzheimer’s Patients

Art Therapy is a way of letting people express themselves. Using paint, pen, charcoal, and other mediums, they are able to unleash hidden memories. No one knows for sure how art therapy works, but somehow the simple act of painting or drawing brings out memories in people suffering from brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease. It also seems to slow down the heart rate and breathing and decrease blood pressure. So it’s not surprising that the Alzheimer’s Association promotes ‘ Memories in the Making Arts Program’. This program originated in Orange County, California in 1988 and has been adopted by many local Alzheimer’s Association chapters throughout the States.

So how do you get someone with Alzheimer’s Disease involved in Art Therapy?

 Dr Gayatri Devi, in her book What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Alzheimer’s Disease (2004), offers the following tips:

- contact the local Alzheimer’s Association to see if there are any creative programs in your area. Also ask the therapists and social workers at the local hospital.

- an alternative to painting might be a trip to the local art gallery or museum.

- pick up art books at the local library to look through.

- completion of any art work is not important. It’s the creative process that counts.

- keep the project at adult level. Use watercolors, charcoal, and pastels (not crayons, construction paper, and felt markers).

- maintain safety at all times – avoid sharp objects and toxic substances.

- never criticize the art work.

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Photo: Rachael Rossiter