Gourd Painting

Gourd painting is a creative and engaging activity that can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia. It involves painting on the surface of dried gourds, which can be a fun and therapeutic way to stimulate cognitive functions, improve fine motor skills, and provide sensory engagement.

Materials Needed: Dried gourds, acrylic paints or watercolors, paintbrushes, a palette for mixing colors, and a stable work surface.

Explain the task to the participant. Show them the gourds and the painting materials and explain how to paint the gourds. Start with a simple demonstration of how to paint a basic design on a gourd. Encourage the participant to follow along.

• Cognitive Stimulation: Planning and creating designs on gourds may enhance memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.
• Fine Motor Skills: Handling painting tools and working on the small surface of a gourd enhances dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
• Sensory Engagement: The tactile experience of handling the gourd, the visual appeal of the designs, and the smells of the paint provide soothing sensory input.

Amazon.com
Target
Michaels.com
Grocery or produce stores for gourds.