Alzheimer's Association offers interactive arts program

MIDDLETOWN – The Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter is offering a creative interactive social program for people with early- and middle-stage dementia and their family caregivers.

“Something for Alz: An Art Therapy Program” will be held from 11 a.m. to noon on Thursday, May 30, June 6, 13, 27 and July 11 at Braemar at Wallkill, 21 Riverside Drive.

Licensed art therapist Lisa Papantoniou leads the group. She said the program is designed to help participants explore their feelings, strengthen coping skills and increase communication.

Each week, participants will have the choice of creating an individual art project or doing a suggested project, using materials such as paper, paint and clay.

“Often themes come up naturally as attendees process at the end of each session,” she said.

Papantoniou said such art-based activities are beneficial, for caregivers and people with the disease alike.

“It provides an opportunity for caregivers to see their loved one’s strengths,” she said. “It also gives people with the disease a way to express themselves, make choices and maintain independence, as well as providing social interaction.”

She also noted that it is helpful for people to interact with others facing the same issues because it helps them realize they are not alone.

Papantoniou said she finds the process inspiring.

“Amazing things happen during art therapy groups,” she said. “Participants become calmer, happier and proud of their achievement in creating a piece of art.”

This program is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.

About the Hudson Valley Chapter

The Hudson Valley Chapter serves families living with dementia in seven counties in New York, including Duchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester. To learn more about the programs and services offered locally, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit www.alz.org or call 800.272.3900.