A care home in Hull has introduced a creative art programme designed to help residents living with dementia build confidence, learn new skills and enjoy painting together.
Residents at Elm Tree Court, Preston Road, have been taking part in regular art classes led by local amateur artist Debbie Innes, with each session structured to help people develop their work on such as coastal scenes in manageable stages. The classes have proved popular with residents, many of whom look forward to the sessions each week.
Previous groups have continued painting after the course finished, using the skills and confidence gained during the sessions. Kerry Moss, manager at Elm Tree Court, said: “The art sessions have been lovely to see because they are not just about the finished painting.
“Residents are following a process, remembering techniques from one week to the next and enjoying time together around the table. Debbie has created a calm, encouraging class where everyone can work at their own pace.
“It has given residents something to look forward to and, for some, it has sparked an interest in painting that has carried on beyond the sessions.” The classes started in Dementia Action Week, the annual Alzheimer’s Society campaign which raises awareness of dementia and encourages more people to seek advice, support and diagnosis.
Artist Debbie said: “The sessions are built up slowly so residents can learn one part of the painting, come back to it, and then add something new. We might start with the background, then return to that in the next class before moving on to the next stage.
“That repetition helps people feel more confident, and it is lovely to see how much they remember and how proud they are of the finished work. Everyone works at their own pace.
“The aim is not perfection; it is about giving people the chance to enjoy being creative and to see that they can still learn new skills.” The sessions also give residents the chance to spend time together, talk about their work and share what they have created with staff, relatives and other residents.
One resident taking part said: “I enjoy coming to the class. I like seeing the picture come together and I’m proud when I can show people what I’ve painted.”
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