# Art class connects dementia patients

> Columbia's arts program helps people with Alzheimer's and dementia share creativity.
- Title: Art class connects dementia patients · ABC7 New York
- Summary: Columbia's arts program helps people with Alzheimer's and dementia share creativity. Art classes build community and self-esteem for dementia patients.
- Keywords: arts and minds, columbia university, alzheimer's, dementia, washington heights, bilingual class, community art, news, local, Art, class, connects
- Source: ABC7 New York — https://abc7ny.com/post/bill-ritter-joins-columbia-universitys-arts-minds-class-diagnosed-alzheimers-dementia/19844617
- Published: 2026-09-18T21:58:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: arts and minds, columbia university, alzheimer's, dementia, washington heights, bilingual class, community art, news, local
## Art for dementia patients
Columbia University's 'Arts and Minds' class helps people with Alzheimer's and dementia connect through art.

> We are not talking about Alzheimer's disease. We're not talking about dementia. We're talking about art.
## Art builds community
The class creates space for creativity, connection, and community among participants.

> Art can speak to our spirits. It has something to say to us that is very much at the center of life.
## Bilingual support
The program specifically reaches Black and Hispanic communities where dementia rates are higher.

> Part of the stigma of dementia is it really cuts into one's self esteem.
## Self-esteem boost
Participants feel more like their old selves through shared art experiences.

> You are talking like yourself when you look at a work of art and share with us what you see.
## Weekly sessions
Dementia patients build community and emotional connection during weekly art sessions.

> We don't have to go home, sit in the dark, and turn on the TV.
## Key takeaway

Art classes build community and self-esteem for dementia patients.