Creative arts program enriches quality of life for residents with dementia

Queensland aged care provider Lutheran Services is developing creative, research-based engagement programs designed to enrich the quality of life for residents with dementia. Including art, dance, music, storytelling and theatre, these targeted creative arts initiatives are intended to empower residents to express themselves, find purpose and experience moments of joy, regardless of their cognitive ability.

“There is significant evidence supporting the value of creative health programs for older Australians living with dementia,” Lutheran Services CEO Nick Ryan said. “The innovative programs developed by our dedicated staff go beyond basic care to deliver real and lasting impacts on quality of life.”

Natalija Pearn, Lutheran Services’ Creative Engagement Lead, is overseeing the program. “Creative activities stimulate parts of the brain that remain strong as dementia progresses,’’ Pearn said. “Our programs nurture social connection, offer emotional outlets and foster a sense of accomplishment. Even as abilities decline, residents can engage meaningfully through art and creative activities.

“The power of creativity is that it doesn't rely on memory to allow feelings to be expressed and a sense of accomplishment to be felt even when verbal communication becomes limited.”

Natalija Pearn.

Pearn led a pilot program at Orana Aged Care, Kingaroy focused on creative engagement during afternoons and evenings — critical times when residents living with dementia can be more vulnerable to stress and experience increased restlessness.

“Activities later in the day might include home-like tasks such as setting tables for dinner, or art making, singing and reminiscing. These activities are adapted by staff into one or two steps, making them achievable as dementia progresses to create a real sense of purpose,” Pearn said. “The trial is having positive results. Staff and family have noticed a reduction in stress and changed behaviours, along with improved sleep, but most importantly, a marked increase in joy, social connection and engagement.”

To further enhance comfort, communication and connection for residents living with dementia, other Lutheran Services sites are trialling innovations such as doll therapy with weighted, heartbeat sensory companions and VR experiences. A range of training sessions for carers and support staff that focus on empathetic, often non-verbal communication have also been developed by Pearn, who brings expertise in community health and positive aging, and postgraduate studies in her interest field of dementia.

“Supporting a workforce that understands and connects with every resident is central to Lutheran Services’ approach,” Pearn said. “Ongoing training empowers staff with skills to interact positively with residents and create opportunities to make everyone’s day a little happier. We consider topics for conversation, validate their feelings and learn to understand and mirror body language. This says to the resident ‘I see you, I am here with you’.

“Such positive engagement improves relationships, lifts morale and results in a happier environment for both residents and staff. Every person living with dementia is unique, and our approach supports this individuality.” Pearn also said a dementia diagnosis does not define the individual — “With empathy and creative connection, every day offers new opportunities for purpose and joy.”

Images: Supplied