Art Therapy
When Words Fail, Art Finds a Voice
The Question: What if I told you it’s possible to get to know someone, have a conversation, and form a deep relationship, all without words?
This thought became a necessity about a year ago during our chapter’s first visits to a local senior living community and a rehabilitation center. I went there with a simple goal: to provide companionship and strike up conversations about life. But I quickly realized that, ironically, traditional conversation wasn’t the best way to communicate with many residents.
For various health or cognitive reasons, striking up a fluid conversation was often a challenge. I felt a frustration stemming from the closed door to communication.
Bringing Art Therapy to the Senior Community
I found the solution by drawing inspiration from my previous art therapy experience with the SOS Foundation. I realized: "Instead of words, why not use art to connect and learn about the residents?"
I immediately put the idea into motion! With guidance from my mother, a former children’s art teacher, our chapter spent a week developing a simple, accessible art activity. That weekend, we ran the program with the residents.
The results were truly uplifting! With each line they drew and each snip of a scissor, what I saw in every resident was joy and perseverance in creating something of their own. Sure, by the standards of our fast-paced world, their movements were a little slow, but I considered it their dedication to the craft.
Imperfection as a Point of Connection
The most crucial element was the 'imperfection' that arose during the process.
Some lines were wobbly, and some coloring went outside the boundaries. Yet, those very 'mistakes' became the points of connection that brought us all a good laugh! I consider every one of those 'imperfect details' to be each individual's unique flair of personality.
The fascinating part was the full circle moment: slowly but surely, from the art also naturally came conversation! Talking about their artwork led to stories about their lives. Individuals who were initially quiet began opening up as they explained their creations. The relationship, which started without words, was ultimately completed with words—a beautiful, perfect cycle.
