We are delighted and honoured to have won Alzheimer Scotland’s Dementia Award for ‘Best Innovation in Continuing Care 2016’ validating the structured art classes we deliver to people with dementia.
We deliver classes specifically designed for people living with dementia and the most vulnerable in our community. Validated by research from St Andrews University and featured in the Journal for Dementia Care, our classes show people living with dementia what they CAN do.
Many people living with dementia in Care homes are not able to leave their residence. ‘Art In A Suitcase’ was introduced in
January 2016. As the name suggests, all the materials required for the class are packed into a suitcase and taken into the residential homes where lessons are delivered by our teachers. This project has generated great interest from those living in the care homes; even those who do not actively join in other social activities have joined in the classes and produced wonderful works of art! In addition, many of the care homes involved have created art galleries with the artists’ work displayed for everyone to see and it has become a great talking point for family members and others living in the home.
Scientific studies show that art activities have significant impact on wellbeing and sense of identity. In addition, we believe our classes reduce isolation, increase confidence and, that although often living within their own reality,
allow individuals to connect well with others. At Dementia
Arts Trust, we have been privileged to be involved and witness this for ourselves.
Henry Simmons, Chief Executive of Alzheimer Scotland