Creativity
The creative process can be a valuable exercise for those living with dementia. It can help them uncover memories they may have forgotten, as well as sparking laughter and joy.
Art therapy can also help those with dementia to develop a sense of self-worth, and provide opportunities for social interaction. The ability to express themselves through creating can make them feel more comfortable expressing themselves in the hospital environment, and can be used to enhance their wellbeing and happiness.
Relaxation
Art can boost the brain and help dementia sufferers focus on the present, improving both concentration and memory. The activity also stimulates areas of the brain that have been ‘untapped’, highlighting abilities and talents they may not have had before.
Meditation is also linked to the benefits of creativity and can enhance cognitive function, particularly in older people. The technique can increase attention and awareness, which in turn improves cognitive performance, researchers in France found.
Memory
Memory is a crucial part of everyday life. It can help you to recognise friends, remember places and recall important details about your past. It can also be a challenge for people with dementia.
Dementia can affect memory in a variety of ways, including making you forget where you are or how to get somewhere else. It can also make it harder for you to recognize faces and remember people’s names.
