1. Adult Learning theory and dementia / Alzheimer’s patients
By Margaret Blanchfield
December 6, 2016
ART 130

2. What is the theory?
The developer of the Adult Learning Theory is Kathryn Patricia Cross (1926). Dean of Students at Cornell, Princeton, Cal, Harvard and back to Cal.
Difficult theory because it’s both a theory and also a method. It’s an idea and also a way to proceed.
Backbone is experiential learning or learning by doing.

3. Four principles define the adult learning theory
1 -- capitalize on the experience of participants adapt to the aging limitations of the participants. (finger paints versus beads) 3 -- be challenging enough to move participants to increasingly advanced stages of personal development (scaffolding) allow as much choice as possible in the availability and organization of learning programs.

5. Article one “art therapies and dementia care: A systematic review”
Previous focus on DAT was on biomedical solutions to pathology RATHER THAN improving care for and quality of life for patients.
Focus was on controlling undesirable symptoms.
DAT diagnosed individuals can still meaningfully interact despite stigma resulting from perceived inability to navigate their social worlds.
They can learn new things despite brain impairment.
Research now demonstrates that using therapeutic art and art therapy . . .
Promotes general relaxation and wellness
Promotes hope, healing and increased quality of life
Quality moments for patients and family
Expressions of sadness and loss – considered a valuable outcome.

7. Normally considered “regressive” materials are appropriate.
Article two art therapy and neuroscience blend: working with patients who have dementia
Art / Art Therapy exercises parts of the brain that are still functioning in DAT patients.
Patients can include depth, proportion, appropriate color and high levels of detail.
Normally considered “regressive” materials are appropriate.
Sensory stimulation can trigger memories and light up dormant parts of the brain.
Care givers might be able to see progression of the disease by analyzing a series of artworks.
Even as patients became aware of their confusion and cognitive loss, they continued to express themselves in art class.

9. Walter Utermohlen

10. How is art used in dat facilities?
Patients draw self portraits – improve communication
Drawings, collages and paintings stimulate or trigger memories
ARTZ (Arts for Alzheimers) - available at the Louvre, NYC MOMA, National Gallery in Australia and in Sacramento (
Crocker Art Museum
The California Museum
California Auto Museum

11. Art and Alzheimer’s “memories in the making”

12. Gaps in research
Inadequate explanation of study design, including description of activities and methods used.
Poor or unspecified, if any, measurement tools.
Overemphasis on clinical outcomes.
Lack of systematic analysis of data.

13. Emerging questions
Can we delay or eliminate the onset of DAT through lifelong art programs?
Can we slow the progression of DAT by using art practice or art therapy with patients?
Wouldn’t it be great to have programs that auction the art of patients and use the proceeds for research, prevention, treatment, care and ART PROGRAMS?
Wouldn’t it be great if a movie producer created a documentary on this subject and gave the proceeds to the above-mentioned?

14. conclusion
DAT treatment centers and memory care facilities are successfully using the Adult Learning Theory to offer art classes to patients.
. . . capitalize on the life experience of participants.
. . . adapt to the aging limitations of the participants.
. . . offer challenges to move participants to advanced stages of personal development.
. . . allow choices in the availability and materials of learning programs.
DAT patients can still learn new things. Art helps their communication, self esteem and enjoyment of life.

15. Photo and video references
Dunn, Tim – second photo
KevinMD.com – first photo
Utermohlen, W., Self Portraits after diagnosis. Retrieved from Art & Alzheimer’s: An interview with Patricia Utermohlen,  – fourth photo  
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