Finding Pride and Accomplishment through Art

The residents of RSL Care Cazna Gardens have been participating in an art therapy program once a week and have experienced positive and rewarding results. 

Art therapy was introduced by Diversional Therapist Maree Merrick who wanted to offer her residents an activity to not only keep them occupied but also to stimulate their minds.  

This type of therapy is widely used in residential aged care with multiple benefits including: fine tuning motor skills, improving communication, keeping the mind active, maintaining social relationships and helping residents express themselves.

The simple step-by-step process teaches them new techniques exercising both the brain and muscles. During art therapy residents are encouraged to communicate with each other and talk about what they are producing.

“We always make sure we hang the residents’ work on the wall for everyone to admire,” said Maree.

“I encourage residents to express themselves and showcasing their work has helped them to feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.”

Art therapy has also been used in the special care unit for suffers of dementia. Research has shown that by using the creative side of their brain art therapy can help to reduce stress, improve their quality of life and allow them to engage with the world.

Looking at a picture or creating an artwork can also help to trigger memories, which may have been forgotten by a resident. Much of the art done in these classes is given to the special care residents. 

Click here to find out more about RSL Care's aged care services.