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Art Activities for the Elderly and Disabled

My mother was a self-taught artist. She was diagnosed with colon cancer in 1996. As the rebel daughter, I had a tense relationship with my Mom but when she became ill, art brought us closer together. The process of creating art was very powerful for us. It was relaxing and gave my mother something to look forward to.

After she passed away I wanted to continue working with others so I began taking art supplies into nursing homes and senior day care centers. Last year I formed a non-profit organization. With the help of a recent graduate of the University of Texas, and a current student, we go into six different locations and help the elderly and disabled adults create their own work of art.

Many of these people have been uprooted from their homes, suffered the loss of loved ones, suffer from debilitating illnesses and overall diminished self-esteem. Our goals are to help them build friendships through group activities, give them a sense of self-worth, build their self-esteem and empower them to try new things. They have no control over when they eat, sleep or even go to the restroom so we give them complete control over their art projects. We have exhibits and parties to showcase their work. It has been a rewarding experience! There is no greater satisfaction for us than seeing a participant beam as they hold their completed art project.

Story was submitted anonymously