When a loved one is experiencing the diminishing impact of dementia, one of the best things you can do is spend quality time with them. Sharing enjoyable activities together can help them feel safe and comfortable, which is critical to their well-being. Art is a popular activity that's calming and may even support improved recall abilities and boost moods. Here are three ideas to get you and your loved one into a creative mood.

What Art Projects Are Fun and Beneficial for a Senior With Dementia?

1. Make Cards Together

Creating greeting cards for family and friends is a lovely way to help your loved one feel truly connected. All you need is construction paper and markers or crayons. Allow your loved one the freedom to express themselves however they want, even if what they draw doesn’t necessarily make sense to you at a glance. 

The joy is in the art of creation and the ability to lose themselves in a project that brings them happiness. Tell them how much your loved ones will appreciate getting a handmade card from them.

2. Draw With Music

Art forms can collide in wonderful ways and bring about a tremendous sense of peace for dementia patients. Research finds that when people with cognitive health concerns listen to music, certain parts of the brain that hold on to musical memories may be triggered. This can bring about feelings of familiarity and joy, both of which you want to encourage. 

Give them colored pencils and some paper and allow them to doodle to their heart’s content. The emotions they feel while listening to songs could stimulate them to create meaningful drawings. At the very least, they will be filled with joy as they draw.

3. Play With Clay

It can be fun to simply mold clay in different forms, with no intention of building anything specific. The ideal formula is polymer-based, as it's soft, stretchy, and won’t create a mess or stick to their hands. Because polymer-based clay can harden when placed in the oven, you can even surprise your loved one with their creation by baking it into a permanent piece. Set it on display in their room for a nice touch.

If you're seeking a professional who can help you navigate the complex journey of caring for a relative with dementia, turn to the caring staff at Memory Care Home Solutions. Based in St. Louis, MO, they provide free caregiver training so that you can help your loved one every step of the way. Visit the website for more information or call (314) 645-6247 to speak with a team member today.