PFAC Dementia Care Programs

In 2018 thanks in-part to a Laura Jane Musser grant, PFAC launched a Dementia Care Art Program aimed local seniors living with dementia. This is a demographic we've long wanted to engage more as dementia is the most common diagnosis at our local Senior Centers. Launching these programs allow us to reach this underserved group more thoroughly. 

Our Dementia Care Art Program consists of two sub-programs: 

Here and Now – A Dementia Focused Art Class 

This includes persons living with Dementia and their caregivers – either personal or professional. Creating art gives elders a sense of mastering, the ability to make something admired by others, a distraction from aches and pains, and a social opportunity to engage with others. This is a year-round monthly program involving an Art Instructor, a few respite care providers and about 14-16 participants.

TimeSlips

TimeSlips is creative storytelling for people with Dementia. The program involves a storyteller who presents a classic painting and leads participants through different exercises creating stories about the painting.  TimeSlips is designed to be life affirming, inspiring and grounding. It opens storytelling to everyone by replacing the pressure to remember with the freedom to imagine.

Our dementia care programs help better serve our local elders by infusing creativity into their care system. In a time when we deny aging and isolate our elders, we hope to improve well-being through creativity and connection.