Although someone with dementia may forget who made a drawing or when they received it, the emotional impact often lasts much longer than the actual memory.
First, there is the concept of emotional memory. This is a key insight into dementia: people forget facts (like a grandson visiting) but retain the feelings the visit evoked, such as security or happiness, for hours or days.
A colourful drawing immediately evokes positive emotion, even if the cognitive link is lost.
Second, drawings offer communication without words. As dementia progresses and words lose their meaning, images and colors remain accessible. A drawing says “I love you” without requiring the processing of complicated sentences, and bright colors provide visual engagement for the brain.
Third, art serves as an anchor in the environment. In care facilities, drawings make a sterile room feel personal and help the resident feel “at home.” For visitors, a drawing is a gentle conversation starter (“Look at these beautiful colors”) rather than asking about lost memories.
Finally, consider the importance for the grandchild. Because dementia can be scary or abstract for children, making a drawing gives them a sense of agency. It teaches them that the relationship still exists, just in a different form.
Grandchildren can use the remote control to make a drawing for your loved one and show it to them during a video call.
