Age, ability or generation are not predictors of a person’s ability to create art. Signature HealthCARE residents, particularly those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia, are reaping the benefits of unleashing their creativity and artful imagination.

Residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia may see art as impossible and out of their reach, but Quality of Life at Signature HealthCARE reimagines possibilities for all residents. In 12 Signature Kentucky communities, art is bringing together residents, stakeholders, families, volunteers and nationally renowned artists with a Peter Pan inspired project.

From choreography performed in wheelchairs to designing fairy houses and pixie dust to putting colors to canvas, Alzheimer’s and dementia patients are stirred to embrace creativity. Over 16 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s or dementia, and the number is projected to only grow in the coming years.

Art inspires the brain to remember, research has proven, whether the memory is an emotion, event, milestone or person and also provides non-pharmacological forms of therapy.

“Regardless of physical ability or illness – with art, people can be physically ill, but creatively well,” Angie McAllister, Signature’s Director of Cultural Transformation, said. “It’s the journey of creating something beautiful that brings our residents joy.”

Marking Alzheimer’s awareness month in November, residents across Signature HealthCARE are embracing art in different ways.