Creative arts therapies can significantly enrich the lives of those living with an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis. Music therapy, art therapy, dance/movement therapy and drama therapy are becoming increasingly recognized for their ability to effectively work towards therapeutic goals, bring comfort, stimulation, and a sense of connection to those who may be struggling with the effects of their diagnosis . These therapies offer a way to tap into one's creativity, emotions, and meaningful engagement with others. Whether it's through the joy of singing and music making, the expressive brush strokes of a paintbrush, or the meaningful movements of dance, creative arts therapies offer a powerful way to improve the lives of those with Alzheimer's and can bring a sense of purpose and accessible expression to their daily lives.
At MIYA Creative Care, we primarily partner with long-term care homes and have a special focus on empowering and enriching the lives of older adults living with a dementia diagnosis. We offer music therapy, art therapy and dance/movement therapy to care facilities and individuals/caregivers living at home. Read below to learn a little bit more about each of these therapies.
Music therapy is the use of music and the therapeutic relationship by a certified music therapist to help clients work towards their therapeutic goals. Music therapy can help improve socialization, motor functioning, and self-expression in those living with Alzheimer's - to name a few! Music has the ability to evoke emotions and memories, and it can help people both meaningfully connect
with others and communicate their feelings. Research has shown that music therapy can also help improve cognitive function, including memory and attention, in those with Alzheimer's (Gold, 2013).
Art therapy is another creative arts therapy that can benefit those living with Alzheimer's. It provides an outlet for self-expression and can help improve cognitive stimulation. Through the use of colors, shapes, and textures, individuals with Alzheimer's can create something unique and meaningful. Art therapy
has also been found to help improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety in those with Alzheimer's (Belkoff & Castle, 2012).
Dance/movement therapy is yet another creative arts therapy that can be beneficial for those living with Alzheimer's. This type of therapy involves movement and dance as a form of expression. It has been shown to improve physical function, balance, and coordination in those with Alzheimer's (Gombos, 2016). Dance/movement therapy also helps improve socialization and self-expression, as well as boost mood and reduce stress and anxiety (Gombos, 2016).
Creative arts therapies can also help break the stigma around Alzheimer's. They provide individuals living with an Alzheimer's diagnosis with a way to express themselves and connect with others, which can not only help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, but can also help caregivers, loved ones, and community members recognize that they are can still live expressive, meaningful, and purposeful lives.
In conclusion, creative arts therapies, including music therapy, art therapy, and dance/movement therapy, offer numerous benefits for those living with Alzheimer's. These therapies can improve socialization, self-expression, cognitive stimulation, and mental health. They also help break the stigma around Alzheimer's by providing individuals with a way to connect with others and express themselves. If you or a loved one is living with Alzheimer's, consider exploring these creative arts therapies to improve quality of life.
If you would like to learn more about how music therapy, art therapy or dance/movement therapy can help support your loved one or patients with an Alzheimer's disease diagnosis, please contact us at info@miyacreativecare.com
Alternatively, you can fill out this form and we will be in touch within 24 hours!
References:
Gold, C. (2013). The efficacy of music therapy for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Music Therapy Perspectives, 31(1), 12-18.
Belkoff, L. P., & Castle, N. G. (2012). The benefits of art therapy for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease & Other Dementias, 27(5), 356-361.
Gombos, F. (2016). Dance/movement therapy for individuals with Alzheimer's disease: a review of the literature. American Journal of Dance Therapy, 38(1), 25-40.