Campaign for funding of Senior Arts Programming through GiveMN.org.
Drama Interaction, 501(c)3 all donations tax deductible
Because memory problems often effect short-term memory more than long-term recall, even people with severe dementia are able to connect with music they had enjoyed before their memory began to decline. We use improvisational exercises which are about being “in the moment”; a very safe place for someone with memory loss.
Theatrical activities offer this group a unique environment where the threat of being “right or wrong” is removed, no proficiency is required, there is nothing to read or memorize, and constant positive encouragement allows deep creativity to flow.
Theater programming creates a safe space that allows for expression through simple movements, sounds, objects or words. In addition, improvisational communication is helpful in decreasing negative dementia symptoms and contributing to overall wellness.
Participant will engage in gentle body movements, vocal exercises using call and response, singing, sit dance, improvisation, puppetry and musical instruments.
The prevalence of arts activities available to elders in nursing homes senior care centers, assisted living, etc. is practically non existent; adaptive programs, even worse.
We hope to begin to tackle this very large need, one program at a time, until being a senior in Minnesota might be considered and Artful Advantage!
Your donation in any amount will ensure the continuation of these much needed programs in the Twin Cities.
- Theater Benefits - encourage self expression and creativity
- Combat loneliness and isolation within a supportive group of peers.
- Draw upon rich past experiences to create scenarios that showcase important moments in life.
- Capture the health-giving aspects of laughter
- Dance Benefits - Increase circulation, strengthen the immune system, reduce pain, speed healing and improves sleep.
- Movement and body language
- Observation, following and retention
See what some are saying about our outreach programs for Seniors:
*** ”There are times that us staff cannot reach them and YOU do! I have never seen our Russian residents light up the way they do with you in Drama Interaction “
-Nicole Ritchie, therapeutic recreation specialist
*** “Your variety of music and themed events are a great way of reminding them what season we are in. You are making a difference in the lives of our aging.”
-Tammy Allison, therapeutic recreation specialist
*** “I learned to express myself with verbal and movement actions. We laugh, learn, act, dance, be funny, be serious, dress up, adlib and Improvisations. Just really a wonderful program.”
- Cora Crow Resident
*** “Thanks for all you do here! I’ve heard such great feedback from our HHA’s too about how fun you are with our residents. Our family member, Cliff, also really seems to enjoy himself too! I love having this for something a little different for entertainment, that’s engaging!
-Heather Rhein, therapeutic recreation specialist
