Ideas & Advice
Practical guidance for families caring for an ageing parent at home.
At Artful Connections, we believe that creativity is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen the bond between adult children and their older parents. Our blog explores practical ideas for meaningful family visits, the benefits of creative engagement for seniors, and how simple art activities can spark conversation, unlock memories, and bring families closer together.
Whether you're caring for a parent at home, visiting regularly, or looking for a meaningful gift that goes beyond the ordinary, you'll find inspiration and guidance here. Every article is informed by the experience of art therapist Deb Shapiro, who designs all of our creative wellbeing kits from her studio in Brisbane, Australia.
What Should I Do When a Senior Refuses to Share?
A senior who refuses to share in a group art session is rarely just being “difficult”. More often, they are trying to protect something, control, status…
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How to Adapt Shared Creative Activities Day to Day
The question is not whether your parent can do the activity. It is whether the activity can change with them. One morning they can talk, choose colours…
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How to Start a Painting Activity with an Older Adult
Introducing an older adult to painting doesn’t need to feel complicated. Drawing on Deb’s hands-on experience as an art therapist, discover simple ways to…
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How Often Should I Call or Visit Aging Parents?
A call or visit is only helpful if it leaves everyone steadier afterwards. If your mum is flat for two days after a long lunch, or your dad gets prickly…
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What to Do When Painting Sessions Go Quiet
A painting session that goes quiet is not automatically a problem. Sometimes it is the point.
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What to Do When a Low-Energy Activity Hurts Parent
The first sign is usually small. Your mum shifts in the chair after 12 minutes. Your dad rubs his shoulder while still trying to smile. Someone says, “I’m…
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