Do you know someone living with dementia or Alzheimer’s? Open their minds through the uplifting power of art!
SeniorsPlus is proud to present Opening Minds through Art (OMA), an innovative program designed specifically to bring joy, creativity, and a sense of pride to individuals living with dementia and Alzheimer’s in our community. OMA creates invaluable opportunities for creative expression and social engagement, allowing those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia to truly shine!
So, how does the program work? Over the course of six weeks, individuals with dementia (our amazing artists) are paired one-on-one with trained volunteers, who support them as they create art that taps into imagination rather than memory. This approach allows our artists to focus on their strengths, resulting in a fulfilling experience in a warm and vibrant atmosphere. OMA empowers individuals to discover new identities as artists and helps them leave behind a beautiful legacy of artwork that they can truly take pride in.
Following the completion of classes, we host OMA art shows that showcase these incredible creations. They provide an opportunity to deepen the community’s appreciation for individuals living with dementia. The art serves as a touching reminder of the special individuals who are “still inside,” reshaping how we view, interact with, and care for our loved ones living with these conditions.
Want to help out? One of our biggest challenges is finding dedicated volunteers to support our participants on a one-on-one basis. Don’t worry if you’re not an artist – no prior art experience is needed to be part of OMA!
To enroll a loved one as an artist or to volunteer, please reach out to SeniorsPlus at 207-795-4010, edcenter@seniorsplus.org. Thank you!
Laure Johnson is the Community Services Director for SeniorsPlus.