Responding to a growing population of senior citizens, ARTreach is currently developing new programs and workshops for medical care patients and individuals with Alzheimer’s.
The new programs serving the elderly are called “ARTbeat!” They combine music and dance with art activities designed to stimulate the creative process, to encourage physical activity and social interaction.
The programs are also intended to support reminiscent care and recovery.
Pilot programs were initiated this semester at Kissito Healthcare Center in Katy and the Forum Assisted Living Community in Houston to measure the impact art and music programs would have on the physical and emotional health of residents and patients in long term care.
Indicators established at the beginning of each pilot provided a baseline that would measure reductions in medications, fewer falls, individual improvements in charted behavior, and increased interest in social and physical activity over a 10 week period.
The Kissito Health Care pilot measured significant improvements in behavior and other mental health indicators, including decreases in verbal aggressiveness and increased social interaction.
The Forum programs found marked improvements in social interaction, memory and recall, and increased levels of participation.
The ARTbeat! pilots and other programs initiated during 2009 were made possible in part by the Texas Commission on the Arts and new TCA Arts Respond grants supporting Health and Human Services, and the Houston Endowment.
By: InstantNewsKaty Staff on Thu, Dec 24, 2009
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