GEM Art Classes with Laura Howard

We joined Laura at the Arts Council on Tuesday [1/19] and learned to wrap
sea glass and fashion it into jewelry. There were 12 of us: four
participants; three professional  caregivers; one family caregiver; two GEM
board members; Laura and Gail.
Laura as usual had a wealth of beautiful findings, ribbons and sea glass for
us to choose from. Jane brought additional supplies of her own to share,
Helen brought sea glass that she had collected over the years.  
We went around the table and introduced ourselves and shared where we had
been born which led into side stories. Next we created our jewelry amid
laughter and expert help from Laura. Delicious  refreshments were served and
Angelo began playing we joined him in singing the old familiar songs.
One participant said  "this was the best party she'd ever been to!"   
Our Art at the Park programs are designed to teach caregivers [by example]
the best practices in person centered care for example knowing how to engage
the person living with dementia and have them participate in the activity.
This can sometimes be a challenge as the person living with dementia can
very good excuses not to participate. Knowing  person centered care will
 teach the caregiver to how to engage the person enabling them to enjoy the
activity instead of just being an observer. Participation brings the joys of
accomplishment and a sense of purpose! Thank you Laura for a wonderful day!

Gail E. Sonnesso, MS, QDCS
AFA Excellence in Care Specialist
GEM DAY SERVICES, INC.
http://www.gemdayservices.org
https://www.facebook.com/TheGemCenter