Haro Park Centre invited me to return for a second session to teach acrylic painting. Special thanks to Diane Schindler for this great opportunity and her continued generous support in this role. Thank you to the many volunteers that have made the art courses a success.
My first course instructing Watercolours was well received by both Haro and the residents. For more information download my reference letter.
Vancouver is very fortunate to have such an exceptional facility in their midst. I wouldn’t be surprised to learn Haro’s quality of care is world class. In fact, Haro was recently featured in a Russian documentary film. Haro practices “The Eden Alternative” of residential care.
I’m currently reading Therapeutic Thematic Arts Programming (TTAP) for Older Adults by Linda Levine Madori. It’s been an interesting, inspiring book that has influenced my instruction, communications and enhanced my understanding of both the challenges of older adults and the possibilities of therapeutic recreation. For instance, specific music has been played during the class to stimulate emotion and trigger memories. Dr. Ron Kennedy (2006) stated “Nothing can be more important for your health then the unimpeded expression of emotion.”
TTAP is essentially an art therapy program based on a sequence of creative targeted themes. Author Madori has worked in gerontology for over 25 years and presented over 100 papers on arts and aging. TAP aims at actively engaging elders in diverse arts activities aimed at preserving cognitive functioning while meeting emotional, physical and social needs. I would recommend this book for any Leisure Services Practitioner and anyone who cares for older adults.
Research shows that the brain can make new cells when stimulated. Proven ways to stimulate the brain include writing, thinking, speaking and doing. There are now several studies proving journaling is important for well being – at any age! So, pick up a pen and start writing your way to good health today.