Second Chances: Creative Caregiving through the Arts While Living with Dementia
On June 10, caregivers, professionals and community members came together for Second Chances: Creative Caregiving through the Arts While Living with Dementia, a day-long event focused on how the arts can foster dignity, healing and connection for those impacted by dementia. Held at Lehigh University Art Galleries (LUAG), the event was made possible through a partnership between United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, LUAG, ArtZ Philadelphia and Woodmere Art Museum.
Free and open to both family and professional caregivers, the program offered hands-on creative experiences and research-informed strategies for dementia-inclusive engagement.
The morning session welcomed 30 attendees, including caregivers, advocates and partner organization staff. Facilitators from ArtZ Philadelphia shared principles of joy, well-being and dignity, grounded in the work of psychologist Paul Camic. His research highlights the therapeutic value of the arts in dementia care.
A meaningful Q&A followed, touching on topics such as supporting those who express hopelessness and engaging people with hearing loss. One attendee, Juan, shared how his deaf grandmother still connected deeply to music through vibration—reminding everyone that rhythm, touch and emotion go far beyond words.
Caregiver well-being was a central theme. Reflections like “You can’t pour into others if you don’t pour into yourself” and “You need to create your community” resonated. Raffle items, including caregiver self-care kits donated by PPL and an ArtZ Philadelphia engagement kit, emphasized the importance of nurturing caregivers, too.
A unique highlight of the event was onsite respite care. While one attendee joined the session, their loved one with dementia engaged in interactive art-making facilitated by Hildy—giving both parties the chance to feel supported and seen.
The afternoon session welcomed 18 returning participants for a deeper dive into art-based reflection. Together, the group explored a piece by Jack Whitten and created original art using a range of materials. The experience reinforced how shared creativity can spark connection and provide moments of meaning.
This special day offered more than information. It offered restoration, creativity and a sense of belonging. It showed how the arts can be a powerful tool for well-being—reminding us that even in the face of memory loss, joy and connection are always possible.