Mandalas
Mandala are perfect for people with little or no artistic ability. Even if the patient is unable to draw they will be able to place a few strokes of paint on a paper, with or without aid, and be able to see the colourful result immediatley.
Creativity
Mandalas can be very simple or extremely complex. There is no right or wrong way to draw or colour them. Whether creating their own or colouring one in, they are a perfect opportunity for Alzheimer's patients to express their creativity and release their inner child. They can work alone or together in a group. Besides the positive effects on physical involvement they provide a tool around which conversation can be created.
Some other creative activities that can be pursued in a group setting, or on an individual basis are knitting, painting, clay making, cooking, beading, cereal necklaces, sewing small pillows or sewing buttons onto cloth, and wrapping yarn into balls.
These activities can provide many positive benefits. They have been seen to improve mood and help moderate mood swings. They can help promote socialization, since many activities are performed in a group setting, although most activities are performed in parallel within the group. They provide an opportunity for self-expression and a setting for reminiscing. These activities often bring back long forgotten memories. Familiar activites help to relieve stress and encourage co-operation. Working with their hands can improve their grip and keep their hands more relaxed and nimble. A very important result is the feeling of usefulnes and accomplishment that can be achieved.