Simsbury Public Library Art Exhibit and Educational Series to Provide Insight into Alzheimer’s Disease

“Being Present: The Art of Possibility “is the title of an exhibit that will be on display at the Simsbury Library Program Room for the month of July.  It will be an opportunity for the community to explore the talents and capabilities of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia.  The works of art in this exhibit are being sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Resource Center of Connecticut. The art show demonstrates a variety of techniques that draw on the talents of the residents at the Resource Center. The process helps individuals find meaning, hope and courage in the midst of the disease that can often leave them and their families trapped, victimized and imprisoned.  Rather than retreat from the harsh realities of this illness, the art program uses the disease process as a path to explore the inner triumphs that still may be experienced through the ability to create and establish self-worth. 

In addition to the exhibit, The Resource Center will present an educational series.  On Thursday, July 14^th the discussion will focus on “Exploring Alzheimer’s Disease through the Arts” covering the empowerment of individuals with AD through the arts.  The workshop on Monday, July 18^th will be on “Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease” where participants will learn about differences between Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias, signs and symptoms, and available resources.  On Tuesday, July 19^th the series will finish with “Making a Difference”, exploring a variety of avenues participants can pursue to help individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias.  They will learn about advocacy efforts and volunteer opportunities.  All workshops are in the Library Program Room at 725 Hopmeadow St. from 6:00 to 8:00 pm with light refreshments served. Free and open to the public, you can attend one workshop or all three.

The Alzheimer’s Resource Center (www.arc-ct.org) is a specialized source of research, information and health care that is changing the culture of caring for people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. They are always seeking to meet the interests and talents of their residents that allow for and encourage a sense of purposefulness in their lives and their families.  Since 1990, the Center has done pioneering work studying dementia and caring for people with Alzheimer’s disease.  They provide resources that enable families to provide care at home for their relative with dementia, as well as adult day services, assisted living, skilled nursing care and end-of-life care.  By sharing innovative approaches with family care providers, other organizations and professionals, the Center promotes a new standard of enlightened dementia care.