Farmington Senior Living Facility Uses Art As Therapy

Farmington Station Senior Living

FARMINGTON, CT — For residents of one local assisted living facility, art is not merely something to pass the time; it's a form of therapy literally tapping into undiscovered talent in their golden years.

Farmington Station Senior Living recently shared its unique approach to arts programming that goes beyond experimenting with paint and clay.

The thoughtful approach developed by the director of Compass Memory Support Programming, Katherine Jedynasty, is what sets this senior living arts program apart.

With a bachelor's degree in psychology and a minor in studio art and a master's degree in art therapy/counseling, Jedynasty blends insights developed in both the fine arts and art therapy.

Informed by education, creativity, and experience in therapeutic environments working with children with developmental disabilities,

It is through her education and experience that she can see the untapped potential of assisted living and memory care residents.

Farmington Station, located at 111 Scott Swamp Road, is home to a Compass Memory Support Neighborhood specifically designed for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.

Staff take a non-pharmacological approach to treating symptoms of memory loss that includes a Mediterranean-based dining program adapted for seniors, and structured enrichment programming that includes spiritual and artistic expression and reconnecting with hobbies, both new and old.

Jedynasty uses this approach to map out meaningful programming for residents with dementia.

In Farmington Station’s Compass neighborhood, Jedynasty combines her knowledge of art as therapy and her certified-dementia training with the belief that all individuals, regardless of age or cognitive impairment, are capable of creating when programs are structured with intention and empathy.

“I like to think outside the box and go against the traditional types of programming that we often associate memory care with," Jedynasty said. "I like removing the stigma that people with dementia cannot do the same kinds of things as their peers.”

With that in mind, Jedynasty carefully plans for success.

“I try to stay away from overly complicated materials, such as ones that require a lot of steps or are too messy and overwhelming. To limit distractions, I only put out supplies that they need during each step. I am always doing research and saving ideas to try with my residents,” she said.

Residents work with all kinds of media, including fabric arts, flower arranging, painting, and some mixed-media projects.

Some residents are hesitant to pick up a paintbrush, but with a little encouragement and a sprinkle of Jedmasty’s positivity, many are surprised by what they can make.

“It's a real confidence booster once they give the program a try,” she said.

As the program grows, Jedynasty hopes to have a few dedicated gallery spaces for works to be displayed.

Right now, folks can check out residents’ creative expressions by visiting the community’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/FarmingtonSLR.