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.

Grocery or produce stores for gourds.