Abstract

This research paper aims to examine whether art therapy interventions can encourage communication and self-expression of an individual with late stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD) if they are adapted to the disease related visual deficits and directed on utilizing remaining visual capabilities of this individual. A crucial component of caring for individuals with late stage AD is maintaining their dignity and individuality. Art therapists advocate that art making can be beneficial to individuals affected by AD as it facilitates their self-expression through sensory stimulation, creativity, and social interaction (Stewart, 2004; Ehresman, 2014). Unfortunately, research that validates interventions directed toward maximizing the remaining capacities of individuals with late stage AD and promotion of the adaptation to their disease-related deficits remains scarce.
This research based enquiry presents a unique multidisciplinary approach to creating art therapy interventions that may be beneficial and therapeutic to clients with late stage AD. The enquiry resulted in a case study that adopted a qualitative research methodology. It demonstrated that art therapy interventions that address disease-related visuospatial deficits of an individual with late stage AD can produce a positive change in their ability for self-expression and promote communication with the outside world. Although the study has significant limitations, it can be viewed as a pilot study and further research is necessary to empirically demonstrate the effectiveness of such interventions.