Researchers also found that older adults who suffer from dementia were experiencing a far better life quality when they were participating in an arts program. The Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Cincinnati Chapter’s staff discovered that when they participated in weekly sessions, their elderly patients experienced a far better sense of well-being. They followed more than 40 patients in a so-called “Memories in the Making” program that was done at long-term care facilities and adult day centers. They used observational instruments to measure subjective as well as objective indicators of feeling or emotion, and self-esteem.

The New Jersey-based Neuroscience Institute (JFK Medical Center), together with “Music for All Seasons”, used the “Quality of Life in Dementia” scale to measure more than 20 residents of nursing homes prior to and following live music performances that were given six weeks in a row. They measured a considerably increased quality of life, and the scores stayed higher for longer periods of time as well.

One more example. In Sweden, researchers were assessing the effects and impact of background music and caregiver singing on communication and interaction between caregivers and individuals suffering from severe dementia. They discovered that when they turned on background music, the patients were interacting more actively, communicated verbally stronger and appeared to have a better understanding of situations, while the caregivers were able to decrease their narrating and verbal activity.

The caregiver’s’ role, though,  should not be underestimated in situations like these. If you are interested in a career in this very attractive medical field and want to take care of our elderly, you at least are required to hold a high school or GED diploma. There are many vocational school and medical training facilities where continuing professional education is offered.

The gallery presents an eclectic mix of work in both the abstract and representational fields. The mission is to nurture new talent and artwork that explores the boundaries of perception.

“Art is an inseparable part of daily life,

deeply connected with the spiritual life of the community.

It is an affirming and communal process

without hierarchical criteria, divisions, and differentiation.”