For those living with Alzheimer's disease life can be frustrating and confusing. Sometimes something as simple as a paint brush can help reach beyond dementia. There are 80 Memories in the Making art classes across Colorado. They are sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association Colorado Chapter.

"We use the medium of art in order to get people to release some of their feelings and their memories," said Carolyn Alexander, a volunteer art class leader.

Alexander has volunteered to lead the Memories in the Making class at the Life Care Center of Evergreen for 11 years.

"I never painted until i retired from teaching," said Alexander.

Alexander's art skills are important but her gentle nature and listening skills help class members the most. After all, the class members led rich lives raising families, and enjoyed successful careers. Most enrolled have never painted before. With Memories in the Making, art becomes their voice.

"What we find is people express memories, they're able to share experiences with not only people in the class, but also loved ones who are really missing that interaction," said Sara Spaulding with the Alzheimer's Association Colorado Chapter.

Much of the art work is good enough to frame. Some are even auctioned off for hundreds of dollars to help raise money for the Alzheimer's Association. Perhaps the most important part of the program is the process itself.

"It really improves their sense of self worth," said Marilyn Herr with Life Care Center of Evergreen.

Trained facilitators like Alexander are the key to the program's success.

To learn more about the Alzheimer's Association Memories in the Making program, visit the web site: ALZ.org/co.