Communication goes beyond just words. People express their emotions, tell their stories, and share their perspectives in all sorts of ways, including through art. Creative expression can be a vital part of how someone communicates, especially when their ability to speak changes or becomes more difficult. Over time those experiencing cognitive decline because of Alzheimer’s disease or some other form of dementia may experience those challenges. Alzheimer’s Orange County’s signature art program, Memories in the Making ®, helps others realize that when words fail, art speaks.
What is Memories in the Making?
Memories in the Making is a program dedicated to helping individuals with dementia to express themselves. A typical session invites participants and their care partners into a calming space with thoughtfully arranged art stations throughout the room. Participants can also pick from a variety of picture clippings to spark inspiration, including nature, animals, landscapes, flowers, and other meaningful images. Participants receive all the materials they need to create, connect, and enjoy a shared experience with their care partner.
Memories in the Making also acknowledges the stress and pressure that care partners can carry, and these sessions can serve as a well-deserved break to have some creative fun and relaxation. With calm music filling the room, art facilitators offer warm, expert guidance to help the artists get started on their artwork. The whole session is filled with good energy, created by the art facilitators, and reflected back by the participants.
How has Memories in the Making Made an Impact?
Every brushstroke in Memories in the Making leaves its mark—on care partners and individuals with a diagnosis alike. Audrey Martin and her mom were newcomers to the program, but after just one session, it exceeded their expectations. “We will definitely be back,” said Martin. Among the highlights, she notes that it was great at, “building and strengthening connections and creating bonds and new memories.” She went on to commend the art facilitators for their wonderful guidance, especially in taking the time to find out that her mom loves flowers and in helping her find a picture that inspired her with beautiful florals.
Martin said that, through Memories in the Making and other programs offered by Alzheimer’s Orange County, her mom was “able to bring up memories from the past and verbalize and talk about them together.” Experiences like these demonstrate the meaningful impact these programs can have on participants and their families. At Alzheimer’s Orange County, each story we hear from families about our impact on their loved ones reminds us and others why our programs matter.
How Can I Continue Memories in the Making at Home?
Memories in the Making goes beyond the art classes themselves. Alzheimer’s Orange County also trains care partners to help their loved ones use art to communicate thoughts, feelings, and memories. The art facilitator training and reference manual prepares care partners and helps them feel supported along the way. Creating art is also a great way to exercise the mind and support body coordination, both essential contributors to brain health.
Where can I find more information?
For more information about the program, including Art Facilitator training and additional resources, visit the Memories in the Making webpage found here: www.alzoc.org/mim.
Remember, neither you nor your loved one needs to be an artist to benefit from Memories in the Making. Creating a new avenue of speech gives our participants the opportunity to express themselves, maintain their dignity, and remain connected to those they love. When words fail, art speaks!
This program is also supported by:
