Drawing and Painting to Relax: Simple Ways to Begin

Many adults say “I can’t draw” and stop before they start. This page is for families and care staff helping adults who feel that way, including people living with dementia. The aim is a few minutes of making marks together, with no right answer. It is not a drawing lesson, and nobody needs to be good at it.

What is mark-making, and why start there?

Mark-making means making lines, dots, scribbles and loops on paper without trying to draw anything in particular. Start there because no mark is wrong. The Alzheimer’s Association’s art and music page notes that art projects can create a sense of accomplishment and purpose, and an opportunity for self-expression. Mark-making offers that without any test. Try:

• long lines across the page with a thick marker or crayon
• clusters of dots, pressed with the tip of the tool
• loops and zigzags, one at a time, taking turns on the same sheet

If open-ended marks feel uncomfortable, Tear paper mosaic gives a finished-looking result with no drawing at all.

How can you draw to music?

Play a piece with a clear beat or a clear mood. Ask, “Does this music go up or down?” Let the person draw while they listen, and draw alongside them. The full steps and an easier version are on the Draw to music card. Familiar songs may be especially welcome. Keep the volume moderate and the room quiet, so the sound does not compete with conversation.

How do you try watercolor washes?

A wash is the easiest way to get a result with no drawing skill. Use heavy watercolor paper, wet it with clean water, then let the person touch a loaded brush of color to the page. The colors spread and blend on their own. The Paint with watercolors card has setup steps. Use non-toxic paint, and keep water cups out of reach of anyone who might drink from them.

What simple patterns can you repeat?

Repeating patterns are calming because the next step is always clear. Draw a row of shapes and ask the person to add the next one. Or fill a grid with a repeated mark, such as a cork dipped in paint. Stop when the person is ready to stop. A stone can be painted the same way, with a simple repeated dot or wave; see Paint a garden stone.

How do you help with a weak grip?

Use chunky tools: jumbo crayons, thick markers, or a large brush with a short handle. Wrap a thin handle in foam tape or a rubber band so it is easier to hold. Tape the paper to the table with masking tape so it does not slide. A larger sheet also gives the arm more room to move. If holding a tool causes pain, put it down.

How does a helper start a stroke together?

Sit beside the person, not across from them. Place your hand over theirs, or just above it, and make the first stroke together. Then lift your hand away and let them continue. Many people carry on once the movement has begun. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that someone who is painting may need help starting the brush movement. After a few strokes, step back and comment on what you see.

What should you say, and what should you avoid?

Say things that invite a reply without a test:

• “That blue is lovely next to the yellow.”
• “Tell me more about this one.”
• “Which color should go next?”

Avoid quizzes such as “What is that?”, praise such as “Good job” which can feel childish, and any suggestion to fix the lines. The communication tips guide has more on this. The NHS activities page says that in later stages, activities usually need to be simplified and can focus on the senses. A brush loaded with color, touched to paper, can be enough.

If the person is not interested today, try coloring on another day, or simply sit together and talk. Stopping early is fine.