Creativity is our species’ natural response
to the challenges of human experience.
Adriana Diaz-creativity coach
Engaging in creative pursuits like music and art can play a crucial role in helping prevent cognitive decline as we age. This is true for those living with a dementia diagnosis as well.
In fact, art making can be especially beneficial to people living with dementia. The parts of the brain involved in creative expression often remain intact until later stages of disease. Scientists refer to these remaining strengths as the "cognitive reserve" or "reserve capacity" of the brain. Many individuals living with dementia, even those who are non-verbal, demonstrate the ability to connect through creative expression.
Opening Minds Through Art
One of the programs offered Pine Run Village, "Opening Minds Through Art" (OMA), creates opportunities for residents experiencing cognitive changes to tap into these preserved abilities. OMA (also grandmother in German and Dutch) is an art-making program with the goal of transcending cognitive barriers through creativity. During an OMA semester, resident artists come together with trained volunteers in weekly group sessions. Each volunteer partners with a resident artist to engage in art-making activities. These sessions foster conversation, laughter, and mutual sharing.
Dr. Like Lokon at Scripps Gerontology Center-- Miami University developed and researched the OMA program to promote the social engagement, autonomy, and dignity of people with dementia. The art-making sessions emphasize the process of creating. They encourage personal expression and enjoyment. The art projects are designed to be non-representational. They involve layering multiple simple steps to create a complex piece of art. Favorite projects use collage with tissue paper, ink blots, and foil ball stamping and allow the artist to explore new materials.
These shared activities can provide moments of joy, trigger memories and reduce feelings of isolation. The moments benefit both the individuals affected and the volunteer. Extensive research shows that OMA sessions significantly reduce stress, enhance emotional well-being, and provide vital stimulation for cognitive function.
At the end of each session, resident artists see their completed project displayed in a mat frame and can share with others in the group. In the words of a volunteer, “To see her (my artist partner) so focused on what she was doing and witnessing firsthand her surprise, pride and joy in her final products was very heartwarming.”
OMA semesters culminate in a gallery exhibition of the artwork celebrating the artistic achievements of the participants. The art shows are open to the larger community, including families and team members. The shows promote engagement and challenge preconceived notions about the abilities of individuals living with dementia.
If you are interested in seeing an Opening Minds Through Art program in your community, we encourage you to learn more at https://scrippsoma.org/ and to reach out to learn from our experiences leading the program at Pine Run. Together we can create art, build relationships, and make a meaningful impact with OMA!
