How Creative Programs Promote Inclusivity in Long-Term Care

At MIYA Creative Care, we are dedicated to enriching the lives of aging adults in long-term care homes through the use of creative arts therapies. We provide specialized services in music, art, and dance therapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of this population. By partnering with facilities including long-term care homes, retirement homes, and adult day programs, we aim to integrate our services in such a way that they can help to promote inclusivity of individuals across a spectrum of cognitive, communication, and physical abilities. 

Embracing All Abilities Through Creativity

One of the many reasons creative arts therapy programs can be so effective for so many is that they act as an equalizer — a space for people of many different needs and abilities to come together based on shared interests. Creative programs provide a unique platform for aging adults to express themselves in ways that, when facilitated thoughtfully, can transcend traditional communication, cognitive, and physical barriers. 

This focus on inclusivity is highlighted most when led by an experienced creative arts therapist who knows how to make appropriate accommodations, use inclusive materials, and meet individual needs accordingly within a group setting. Our skilled therapists here at MCC are trained to adapt activities to ensure everyone can participate in their own way, regardless of potential barriers. This dedication to creating an inclusive space is especially important in long-term care settings, where residents may face a wide range of challenges that may stop them from participating fully in various activities and programs. Below are 3 examples of how our creative arts programs aim to address inclusivity of varying abilities. 

1. Addressing Different Stages of Dementia

Dementia affects individuals in diverse ways, with symptoms and capabilities varying greatly across its stages. Recognizing these differences, our creative programs are thoughtfully designed to meet a wide range of needs, offering a flexible and supportive environment where all participants, regardless of their stage in the dementia journey, can engage meaningfully.

In the early stages of dementia, individuals may still retain many cognitive abilities, and activities like songwriting, painting, and collaborative storytelling can help maintain these functions. These creative tasks not only provide a sense of accomplishment but also serve as a valuable means of self-expression, allowing participants to articulate thoughts and emotions that might otherwise be difficult to convey.

As dementia progresses, individuals may experience more significant cognitive and sensory challenges. For these participants, our programs incorporate simpler, sensory-based activities that still hold profound therapeutic value. Listening to familiar music, engaging in guided dance movements, or participating in tactile art projects can evoke memories, trigger emotional responses, and provide a comforting sense of connection to their own identity and to others.

What makes these programs particularly special is their ability to bring together individuals at different stages of dementia in one cohesive group. While each person may participate in different aspects of the activities based on their abilities, the shared environment fosters a sense of community and belonging. An individual in the early stages of dementia might lead a song or initiate an art project, while those in more advanced stages can engage by listening, observing, or adding their unique contributions, such as a rhythmic tap.

This collective experience not only reduces feelings of isolation but also reinforces the idea that everyone, regardless of their cognitive abilities, has something valuable to contribute. It promotes a shared humanity, where the differences in abilities become less significant than the common goal of expressing oneself and connecting with others. Our therapists are skilled in creating an atmosphere where each participant feels included and valued, ensuring that every group session is a positive, enriching experience for all.

2. Accommodating Physical Disabilities

At Miya Creative Care, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the therapeutic benefits of creative expression, regardless of physical limitations. Our facilitators are highly trained to adapt activities to accommodate various physical disabilities, ensuring that all participants can engage meaningfully in our programs.

For those with mobility challenges, seated dance classes offer a way to experience the joy and rhythm of movement without the need to stand. These classes focus on upper body movements, gentle stretching, and rhythmic patterns that can be performed from a chair or even a bed. The goal is to make the experience of dance accessible to everyone, fostering a sense of freedom and connection to the body, no matter the participant’s level of mobility.

Similarly, adaptive art tools are available to assist individuals with limited dexterity or fine motor skills. For example, painting can be made accessible through the use of larger brushes with easy-to-grip handles, or by using sponge brushes that require less precision but still allow for vibrant expression. In some cases, participants may use assistive devices, such as mouth sticks or head pointers, to guide their creative work. These adaptations enable individuals to create beautiful works of art, providing a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities.

Music therapy also offers inclusive opportunities, regardless of physical ability. For those unable to hold or play traditional instruments, adaptive instruments such as hand chimes or tambourines with built-in grips allow for participation in group music-making. Additionally, participants can engage in rhythm-based activities using drums and other percussion instruments designed for easy use, or they may contribute vocally, tapping into the power of music to express emotion and foster connection.

Beyond specific adaptations, our therapists are skilled in creating an inclusive environment that celebrates each participant’s unique contributions. In a group setting, individuals of varying physical abilities can come together to create something meaningful, whether it’s a collaborative art piece, a group song, or a dance performance. The key is to focus on what each person can do, rather than on what they cannot, ensuring that every participant feels valued and included.

3. Supporting Different Verbal Abilities

Communication challenges can be particularly isolating for aging adults, especially those who experience difficulties with verbal expression due to conditions such as dementia, stroke, or other neurological impairments. At Miya Creative Care, we recognize the profound impact that communication barriers can have on an individual’s well-being and sense of connection to others. Our creative programs are designed to offer alternative pathways for expression, enabling participants to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in ways that transcend traditional language.

Music as a Language: Music has a unique ability to convey emotions and ideas without the need for words. For individuals who struggle with verbal communication, music therapy offers a powerful medium through which they can connect with others and express themselves. Whether through singing, playing instruments, or even simply tapping along to a rhythm, participants can engage in meaningful musical interactions that foster connection and self-expression.

For example, singing familiar songs can evoke memories and emotions, allowing individuals to reconnect with their past and share these experiences with others, even if they are unable to articulate them verbally. Playing instruments, whether it’s a simple drum or a more complex instrument like a keyboard, allows non-speaking participants to contribute to group music-making in a way that is both meaningful and empowering. The act of making music together can create a sense of unity and shared purpose, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation.

Art as a Language: Art therapy provides another powerful avenue for expression, particularly for those who find verbal communication challenging or who are non-speaking. Through the use of colors, shapes, and textures, participants can create visual representations of their inner experiences. This form of creative expression allows them to communicate thoughts and emotions that might be difficult or impossible to put into words.

For example, a participant might use bold colors and abstract shapes to depict feelings of frustration or sadness, while another might create a serene landscape to convey a sense of peace. The process of creating art can be deeply therapeutic, as it provides a safe space for individuals to explore and express their emotions in a non-speaking way. Additionally, the art created can serve as a starting point for further discussion and reflection, either individually or within a group, helping to deepen understanding and connection.

Creating Inclusive Group Experiences: One of the strengths of our creative programs is their ability to bring together individuals with varying levels of verbal ability into a cohesive group experience. Whether through collaborative music-making, joint art projects, or group discussions facilitated by our therapists, participants can engage with one another in ways that honor their unique communication styles.

For instance, in a music therapy session, verbal participants might sing or share their thoughts on a piece of music, while non-speaking participants contribute by playing instruments or tapping along to the rhythm. In art therapy, participants might work together on a large mural, each adding their own visual elements to create a collective masterpiece. These inclusive activities not only support individual expression but also foster a sense of belonging and community, helping to reduce the isolation that can come with communication challenges.

By offering these alternative forms of expression, we ensure that all participants have the opportunity to share their voices, regardless of their verbal abilities. Our commitment to inclusivity means that everyone, regardless of their communication challenges, can find a meaningful way to connect, express themselves, and engage with others.

Building Community and Connection

Creative programs do more than just engage individuals on a personal level; they build a sense of community and belonging. Group activities like choir singing (ask us about our MCC Glee Club!), collaborative art projects, and group storytelling sessions foster social interaction and create bonds among participants. These connections are crucial for combating the isolation and loneliness that many aging adults in long-term care experience.

Enhancing Quality of Life

Engaging in creative programs has been shown to improve the overall quality of life for aging adults. These activities can reduce stress, alleviate symptoms of depression, and enhance cognitive and emotional well-being. For individuals with dementia, creative engagement can lead to moments of clarity and recognition, providing precious connections with loved ones.

Our Commitment to Inclusivity in Long-Term Care

At MIYA Creative Care, we are dedicated to creating inclusive environments where every aging adult feels valued and heard. Our team of skilled therapists and facilitators work tirelessly to design programs that are accessible and meaningful for all participants, regardless of their challenges.

By prioritizing inclusivity in our creative programs, we ensure that every aging adult in our care can experience the joy, connection, and therapeutic benefits of creative expression. We invite families, caregivers, and healthcare providers to explore the potential of our programs and join us in celebrating the unique talents and abilities of every individual.

For more information on our inclusive creative programs and how they can benefit your loved ones, please fill out our intake form or contact us directly: info@miyacreativecare.com | 416-951-2788. Together, let's create a world where every aging adult can thrive through the power of creativity.