“With this project, we had a dream: to offer the residents of our home a space for expression and discovery, to stimulate their curiosity, revive their memory, and above all do them good.” Sr Geneviève and Florence Gauthier, animator“

The “So many beautiful things” project at Ehpad Maison Sainte-Hélène d'Épinay-sous-Sénart was aimed at purchasing a large interactive touch screen and offering 52 art-therapy sessions by a professional facilitator.

“These are moments when speech flows differently, when we express our emotions with colors, shapes, simple gestures... Even residents who speak little or have motor difficulties find their place.” Sr Geneviève and Florence Gauthier

Initial results are encouraging. Some of them are showing increased concentration and surpassing themselves despite their physical or cognitive difficulties. The touch screen has enabled them to make some remarkable cultural discoveries, such as a virtual visit to the Louvre, which for some was their first museum experience!

I never thought a screen could make me travel so far,” said one of the residents, her eyes shining.

Art therapy sessions have already taken place and are currently continuing, at the rate of one per week, with a good turnout of around ten residents per session. A loyal core of six to seven people has formed, testifying to the interest aroused by this activity.

The atmosphere is happy and peaceful. The residents look forward to these moments. They are filled with wonder, emotion and curiosity. Each session is an opportunity to create a bond, to revive memories, to bring out emotions, and above all, to give each person back the feeling of fully existing, here and now.

“Thanks to the generosity of many donors, this project provides much more than access to an activity: it offers our residents an opening onto the world, a space of inner freedom, and a source of simple but profound joy. On behalf of all participants and the entire team, thank you very much. Your support is a seed of beauty, peace and humanity.” Sr Geneviève“