Reflecting on Reflections—an art museum programme for adults with dementia
Sujal takes us behind the scenes at the Reflections: Alzheimer’s Program run for adults suffering with dementia and Alzheimer’s, at the Nasher Museum of Art in North Carolina.
Thinking about adults with dementia, an art museum might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, this creative environment fosters a unique mode of engagement, connection, and healing.
Image credit: Sujal Manohar
The Reflections: Alzheimer’s Program at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University has been specifically designed to serve those with dementia and their care partners.
Reflections combines art with interactive components. The programme begins with quiet observation of the artwork. Participants then share their insights with the group, pointing out interesting findings or details in the piece. Live music or art activities that compliment the artworks discussed in the galleries conclude the tour. The same group returns each month, building community among the regular participants.
As an undergraduate, I completed a documentary photography project highlighting the programme. Soon after, I joined the team of gallery guides who lead tours at the museum. I have been fortunate to remain involved with this programme even after graduating from Duke University, as Reflections now includes online tours in addition to live interactions at the museum.
After four years with the programme, I reflect on my ongoing experience engaging with older adults and the value of such initiatives.
Reflecting on…
… the first tour
While I now consider myself experienced with Reflections tours, I was apprehensive when I first observed the programme as a photographer. I wondered if participants would be distracted by the loud noise of my camera shutter or get angry with me for observing them. It dawned on me that learning about Alzheimer’s disease in my neuroscience courses had not truly prepared me to interact with those who suffered from the illness. But after just a few moments, I realised that participants were curious, insightful visitors, who were eager to share and interact with the group.
… memories
I witnessed firsthand how participants uncovered old memories and stories during these tours. For example, upon viewing a photograph of women before a job interview, visitors shared details about their first jobs delivering newspapers or working at restaurants. One female participant discussed how she used to knit and sew after viewing a multimedia weaving piece. Another male participant mentioned how a photograph of a Durham diner reminded him of a restaurant he visited in his younger days. The arts have an incredible power to foster connections—both within ourselves and with others—that would be difficult to build otherwise.
… the role of music
The next tour I observed concluded with a live music component. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly as many clapped along to the beat. The title of the song, ‘Keep on the Sunny Side’, stood out to me with its optimistic lyrics about the positive aspects of life. The song’s words mirrored themes of the programme and was a happy experience for those navigating the challenges of a degenerative neurological illness.
… different abilities
Our programme worked with individuals possessing a wide range of abilities—some participants barely spoke, while others were vocal audience members. However, no matter what the outward response, all participants seemed to enjoy the art discussions and activities. It was moving to learn about the backgrounds of the participants; many were former university professors with doctorates and advanced degrees. I learned that one of the participants was a physics professor who worked at the North American Space Agency (NASA) Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
… Patty and John*
My involvement with Reflections also allowed me to appreciate the unique bond between people with dementia and their care partners. One such dyad was between John, who was suffering from a more advanced stage of dementia and his wife of many decades, Patty. Upon observing their interactions I was immediately able to appreciate the immense care and respect they had for each other. One of the most heartwarming moments I experienced was when I asked to take a photo of them. John told me he was going to look at Patty instead of looking at me; he wanted to make her smile.
… COVID-19
Like everything in spring 2020, the Reflections programme went virtual, converting an in-person art gallery experience into a Zoom activity with artwork images. In a world when so much was uncertain and older adults were more isolated than ever, the Reflections tours were something to look forward to for participants and gallery guides alike. I recall one participant sharing that the art conversations were the highlight of her week. The online tours were so successful and well-received that Reflections has continued them even as the museum opens for in-person activities.
My experiences with the Reflections programme solidified how the arts can impact patients, help foster meaningful connections, and served as a creative outlet for those who needed it most. While Reflections participants are not the average museum visitors to the Nasher, they still appreciate art and benefit from the tour experience. The older adult population is often overlooked, but programmes like Reflections illustrate that even those dealing with dementia have the capacity to engage museum visitors with a multitude of insights and stories to offer.
As such it is my firm belief that initiatives such as this merit further attention, as they present unique modes of engagement for this population that are far too often overlooked.
*Real names have been changed to preserve anonymity.