[8] Horizons: Life Enrichment

Dementia Horizons | Workshop 8 | Life Enrichment

Video Module 8 Transcript

I am excited to have you join me today. Thank you for taking the time to learn about one of the most exciting and satisfying areas of Dementia care: music and the arts. Non-medical interventions and experiences can profoundly impact people living with Dementia, offering life enrichment, and a means to communicate, express emotions, and connect with others. This video aims to provide practical strategies for family caregivers to use music and the arts to support connection, and improve the quality of life for individuals at different stages of Dementia.

As background information, music engages multiple brain areas, including those involved in emotion, memory, and motor functions. This widespread activation can help maintain neural connections that might otherwise deteriorate. Music can also promote neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This is particularly beneficial in compensating for lost functions. Music has also been shown to reduce cortisol levels, thereby lowering stress and anxiety. A calmer state can improve overall cognitive function and quality of life.

Artistic activities such as painting, drawing, and sculpting often engage multiple senses: visual, tactile, and auditory, which can stimulate different brain areas, helping to maintain neural connections and promote brain plasticity. The arts provide a medium for expressing emotions that may be difficult to communicate verbally, fostering emotional release and reducing stress. Any of these activities require focus, planning, and problem solving, which can help slow down the decline in some cognitive functions. In addition, participating in group art activities encourages social interaction and can reduce feelings of isolation and depression. With this new learning, caregivers can now see why it is important to integrate the arts and music throughout the person's Dementia experience.

In the early stage of Dementia, individuals often maintain many of their abilities and can still engage in various activities. Here are some ways to use music and the arts effectively during this stage.

• Compile a playlist of favorite songs from different periods of their life. These songs can evoke positive memories and emotions.

• Take them to live music events, which can be stimulating and enjoyable.

• Engage in singing sessions at home or in group settings. Singing familiar songs can be a joyful activity and promote social interaction.

• Encourage participation in art classes. Painting, drawing, and sculpting help maintain fine motor skills and provide an outlet for self-expression.

• Visiting art museums can be both stimulating and relaxing. Many museums offer special tours for people with Dementia.

• Set up a space at home for joint art projects. Collaborative art making can strengthen bonds and provide a sense of accomplishment.

  
  

As Dementia progresses to the middle stage. Individuals may experience greater difficulty with memory and cognition, but they can still find joy and connection through music and the arts.

• Establish regular times for listening to music. Consistent routines can be comforting and provide structure to the day.

• Consider professional music therapy sessions. Music therapists are trained to use music to achieve therapeutic goals tailored to the individual's needs. Simple instruments like tambourines, shakers or drums can be used for active participation. The rhythmic activity can be both soothing and engaging.

• Provide step-by-step instructions for art projects to accommodate cognitive changes. Simple repetitive tasks can be very satisfying.

• Continue to enjoy looking at art together. Discussing colors, shapes, and scenes and paintings can stimulate conversation and memory.

• Introduce tactile art activities such as working with clay or finger painting, which can be enjoyable and stimulating for the senses.

In the late and final stages of Dementia, individuals may have severe cognitive and motor impairments, but they can still respond positively to sensory stimulation from music and the arts.

• Play soft soothing music to create a peaceful environment. This can help reduce agitation and anxiety. Familiar lullabies and hymns can be comforting and may evoke emotional responses. You may be surprised that people can recall the second or third verses, or the entire song, even in the final stages of Dementia.

• Gentle movement to music like swaying or rocking, can provide comfort and a sense of connection. Add a gentle hand massage while singing, "You Are My Sunshine", or "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" and enjoy the experience together.

• Offer easy art activities like coloring with large crayons or using textured materials. The goal is to provide sensory engagement rather than focus on the final product.

• Use brightly colored objects or pictures to capture attention and provide visual stimulation. When necessary. hold onto the pencil or crayon, and have them guide your hand to help with art activities, ensuring they can still participate meaningfully.

Overall, be patient and flexible. Adapt activities to the individual's current abilities and interests. Be patient and willing to try different approaches. Ensure the setting is comfortable and free of distractions. Positive reinforcement and encouragement can go a long way. The process of engaging with music and art is more important than the outcome. Celebrate the moments of connection and joy that these activities can bring.

Using music and the arts to support individuals with Dementia can enhance their quality of life, providing opportunities for expression, connection, and joy. By tailoring activities to the stage of Dementia and the individual's preferences, family caregivers can create meaningful experiences that enrich their lives and those of their loved ones.

Thank you for being here. I hope you've learned some great ways to enrich the care experience through music, art, movement, and touch, all of which are the wellsprings of the human experience. Best wishes as you continue your journey. Thank you.