Awakening Feelings at Niagara Falls

A picture can be worth more than a thousand words to someone living with dementia.

Jim leaned forward as he observed the painting “Niagara Falls”, by artist William Morris Hunt. After being asked if he had ever been to Niagara Falls, the normally silent Jim responded clearly, “Yes, I spent a whole day down there when I was in the military. You can see that thing for miles. It looks like silver rising. It is beautiful.”

Once someone has opened up, following with clear and precise questions can assist them to remain engaged. When asked if Jim could hear Niagara Falls before he saw it, Jim emphasized, “Feel it! You could feel it. Sound ruptured into the air!”

Jim’s visual connection to the painting allowed him to verbally express valuable life experiences, touching him emotionally and spiritually.