Using Art as Therapy

Myrtle painted a picture of the dairy farm she grew up on. Betty created a lake by her home. Hazel wanted to draw a piano keyboard because it made her think of her sister.

Each of these ladies took part in a “Painting with Music” art therapy session presented by Hospice & Palliative Care of Northeastern Illinois (HPNI) at Sherman West Court, a skilled nursing facility in Elgin that partners with HPNI in patient care.

Including art therapy in the care of hospice patients, as well as those in residential care settings, has many positive effects, ranging from socialization, relaxation and self-esteem enhancement to memory retrieval/life review, stress reduction and a means of communication. The therapeutic effects are inherent in both the artistic process and in the artwork itself–a tangible finished product.

Art, as a means of creative expression, is a natural for the long-term care setting, explained HPNI art therapist Megan Morrison. Many residents are unable to express their thoughts and feelings verbally due to the effects of health conditions such as stroke or dementia. “Their pictures do the speaking for them,” she said.

Megan coordinates her art therapy visits with the facility’s own activities director. “We love it when Megan comes in,” said Mary Summers. “We see our folks go from an ‘I can’t do it’ attitude to joining in and enjoying themselves.”

If participants prefer, Megan does the work for them, following their directions.

“Sometimes, even when they can do it themselves, they like to tell me how to draw or paint their picture because it gives them a chance to have control for a little while–to have their opinion heard.”

One major misconception about art therapy is that participants need to have artistic ability or training. “Art therapy is fitting for anyone. It’s not about the quality of the work,” Megan said. “It’s about giving people another way to openly express themselves, to relax, reminisce.”

Creating something by hand, even a simple watercolor drawing of a house and trees, enhances self esteem for the elderly, helping them feel productive for that day. “It was fun,” said Doris, who created a drawing of a field near her childhood home in Huntley. “I just came in to watch and listen to the music, but decided I might as well do it too.”

Art Therapy is one of several integrative therapies provided by HPNI and supported by donations to the Hospice Foundation. For information, visit our website.