HOW CREATIVITY ENRICHES THE LIVES OF people with dementia

Creativity holds a unique power to connect, heal and inspire. For individuals with dementia, engaging in the arts can provide a sense of purpose, enhance cognitive abilities, and foster meaningful connections. Through art links, Create’s creative arts programme for vulnerable older people with dementia and age-related challenges, we aim to deliver these benefits with some of society’s most vulnerable people. At Chamberlain House Dementia Resource Centre in West London, our recent six-week music project demonstrated the profound impact that creativity can have on participants’ lives.

THE HEALING POWER OF CREATIVE ENGAGEMENT

Scientific studies have shown that creative activities can significantly improve the wellbeing of individuals with dementia. Engaging in art or music helps activate areas of the brain responsible for memory, emotion and communication. According to Age UK, participating in arts-based projects an reduce anxiety, alleviate depression and increase feelings of self-worth.

At Chamberlain House, Create musician John Webb worked with service users to compose songs inspired by their personal stories and cultural heritage. The project was not just about making music though; it was about creating a safe space for self-expression and connection. Begoña, a staff member at the centre, noted the importance of Create’s longstanding partnership with the centre:

Service users can work with professional artists and do activities that we can’t provide. They benefit very much.

The value of such engagement goes beyond the workshops themselves. Participants find joy in the process and feel proud of their achievements, demonstrating that creativity can be a powerful tool for resilience and growth.

STORIES OF TRANSFORMATION

The impact of Create’s work is perhaps best seen in the stories of the individuals who take part. Begoña shared several moving examples of how art:links has changed lives at Chamberlain House:

Mrs P__, who often avoids activities, found confidence and joy during the music workshops. For the first time, she actively contributed by playing instruments and sharing her thoughts. She was so proud of her involvement that she wanted to invite her whole family to see what she had accomplished.

Mrs S__, who struggles with social anxiety and depression, initially observed the sessions from a distance. By the end of the project, she was playing musical instruments and interacting confidently with others. Her daughter was amazed at the transformation, saying,

i couldn’t believe how well she was engaging in such a big group.

Another participant rediscovered her love for the piano after years of not playing due to dementia. Her family shared that the project reignited her passion, and she began playing at home again.

These stories remind us that creativity can unlock hidden potential, even in the face of complex challenges.

CONTINUING THE CREATIVE JOURNEY

art:links has left a lasting impression on the participants and their families. As Begoña shared, “We have two ladies who are aware the project is finishing, and they are already asking when the next one is going to be.” The enthusiasm and anticipation for future projects reflect the deep impact that creativity has had on their lives.

At Create, we are committed to providing opportunities for vulnerable people to connect, express themselves and thrive through the creative arts. Projects like art:links not only enrich the lives of participants but also challenge assumptions about what individuals with dementia can achieve with the right support.

Thank you to our funders: The Charity of Sir Richard Whittington [via The Mercers’ Company], City Bridge Foundation and Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s Arts Grants Scheme.