ABSTRACT
The author describes her work with older adults living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias (AD & D). A brief examination of art as it intersects with aging adults with AD & D is provided, followed by strategies that foster powerful pedagogy and meaningful engagement, art being the conduit in building a creative relationship. Needed flexibility, adaptability, and other preferred qualities within a caring disposition of the teacher are discussed in responding to individuals’ needs whose verbal abilities are typically more severely affected than nonverbal communication. The nature and kind of art activities that nurture creative expression in older adults living with AD & D are considered as are inclusive and effective pedagogical strategies that are responsive to the unique needs of a growing population of adults with AD & D, bridging to a vital human need—to communicate.
