In the summer of 2022, Heather and I began a tradition of creating art together every Friday. Over the following months, we explored a variety of projects—from painting and pottery to crafting door wreaths and even making a stained-glass mirror. As time passed, however, it became clear that I needed to simplify our activities. Heather increasingly struggled with multi-step projects and fine motor tasks.
The two attached images highlight the striking decline in Heather’s ability to engage in art. The first, a flower painting, was created in the autumn of 2022, while the second, completed in January 2025, reflects a marked change over just two and a half years.
Some days Heather refuses to engage with any art materials, and then there are other days when she will make a few marks on paper, especially if I place a marker in her hand and gently guide her movements.
I am so grateful for the many positive art-making experiences we’ve shared over the past few years. It became a special way for us to connect without words, bringing us both joy through our shared creative activities.
That is a most revealing and devastating depiction of how the brain functions as the dementia progresses. Wow. I also am a retired teacher who spends a lot of time with my sister who was diagnosed in July of 2022 with Early Onset Alzheimer’s. I have tried to engage her in art projects, flower arranging, etc. but there is very little understanding, focus or desire to do much. It doesn’t mean that she hasn’t enjoyed the time together. I love the idea of your book and I’d like to purchase it for the Assisted Living/Memory Care facility where my sister will be going into next month. Thanks for adding to the conversation. It is sorely needed.
Thank you Alison for your kind and supportive comment. My art making experience with Heather has changed so drastically over the past 3 years. Now, much like your situation, Heather shows no interest in making art, but I continue to sit beside her and play with art supplies while she watches. There are so few valuable ways of connecting and I find this one is valuable to me and I hope to her as well.
Wow. A picture says a thousand words. Thanks for sharing.