It all started with a simple car ride home. Gabi Boyd had just visited her grandmother, who has Alzheimer’s, and gave her a piece of art she had created. The joy they shared in that moment inspired Gabi to find a way to spread that same happiness to others. As a high school student, she decided to launch "Drawing for Dementia," a club at Naples High School with a mission to brighten the days of seniors in memory care.
What began as a simple art initiative quickly grew into something much more powerful. Originally, the club created personalized artwork for memory care residents, including those at Villa at Terracina Grand in Naples, FL. However, as the club evolved, Gabi and her classmates started visiting residents in person, engaging in collaborative art projects that have fostered meaningful connections between generations.
Building Bonds Across Generations
For Gabi, it was never just about the art. "Even though we’re there to draw, it’s really not about the coloring page," she shared. "It’s about the connection between generations." That connection has proven to be incredibly impactful, as students work side by side with memory care residents, listening to their stories and sharing their own experiences.
At Villa at Terracina Grand, a memory care community managed by The Goodman Group, the visits from "Drawing for Dementia" have had a profound impact. Residents find joy in the companionship of the students. Whether they remember the visit itself or not, the experience of shared creativity brings moments of happiness and calm. As Gabi noted, "Even if the residents don’t remember the two hours that we were there, that connection was still there, and that joy was still there."
The Power of Intergenerational Activities
Intergenerational programs like "Drawing for Dementia" are more than just feel-good projects—they provide real cognitive and emotional benefits for both seniors and young participants. Research has shown that intergenerational activities can improve seniors' mental health by reducing feelings of isolation and boosting their sense of purpose. For younger participants, it offers an opportunity to develop empathy, patience, and an appreciation for the elderly.
At Villa at Terracina Grand, the collaboration between students and seniors has been transformative. One resident, who was particularly touched by the program, shared stories about her father helping to build the iconic Mackinac Bridge. The students responded by drawing a picture of the bridge for her, bringing back cherished memories from her childhood. These personalized interactions create a lasting impact, nurturing both artistic expression and emotional well-being.
Art as a Path to Connection
Art therapy has long been recognized as a valuable tool for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The act of creating something, whether it's a simple flower drawing or a colorful abstract painting, can help improve motor skills and cognitive function. At Villa at Terracina Grand, the residents engage in a variety of creative activities, from canvas painting to puzzle building. By working on these projects together, students and residents find common ground and a sense of accomplishment.
A Lasting Legacy
Intergenerational programs like "Drawing for Dementia" show us the power of simple acts of kindness. By bringing together people of different ages and backgrounds, these initiatives not only enrich the lives of memory care residents but also teach young people the value of empathy and community. In a world where time often seems to move too quickly, these moments of connection remind us of the importance of slowing down, sharing a story, and creating something beautiful—together.
