Creative approaches to involvement

Creative methods offer powerful ways to involve people living with dementia, not just as contributors, but as storytellers, sense-makers, and co-creators. They support expression beyond words and can build connection and shared understanding through empathy and imagination.

Creative approaches are especially valuable when:

Verbal or written communication is a barrier.
People want to share personal meaning.
You are exploring complex, emotional, or experiential topics.
You want to create shared experiences.

Creative involvement methods may be used in combination as seen in e.g. A Life More Ordinary chapbooks, and could include:

Visual and tactile expression

Working with colour, pictures or objects can spark nostalgia, ideas, and conversations.

Drawing, painting, collage (e.g. shared banners or silhouettes – The Unfurlings)
Using memory boxes, object prompts, or visual storyboards
Creating vision boards, like road maps or “maps of the future”

Images, stories & sound

Photos, voice, and sound can all be powerful tools for expressing personal narratives and reflecting on what matters.

Storytelling and reminiscence
Photovoice is a method by which people can document and reflect their experiences
Poetry can help us to express and discover our experiences and connect with others in a powerful way
Music, soundscapes, or shared listening sessions can be a tool for self-expression and social connection

“Good Company” Reimagining Day Care for People Living with Dementia and their Carers – YouTube

Movement and environment

Getting outside or moving through space can create comfort and connection.

Walk-and-talks in familiar or meaningful places.
Exploring ideas or memories inspired by surroundings.
Using senses like smell and movement to create nostalgia and comfort.

Performance, play & shared experience

Imaginative approaches can help people explore emotions, roles, or futures together.

Roleplay, improvisation, or forum theatre, e.g. The World Turned Upside Down
Using play to create connection and shared experiences
Cooking, sharing meals, or using food as a prompt for connection

Important