50+ Lifestyles

Memories in the Making

Dozens of artists in the Quad Cities will have their beautiful art creations go on display on May 17th at The Spotlight Event Center in Moline, Illinois, as part of the Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter Memories in the Making® program in the Quad Cities.

Memories in the Making is an art program for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Most artists have no prior art experience. The painting process provides an opportunity to engage socially and reminisce about meaningful life moments, individuals or personal interests. Participants share stories about their art. A trained facilitator documents these memories, rekindling communications with family, friends, and caregivers. The program offers an emotionally safe environment with positive messages. It is designed to be fun, but also serves as a communication tool for families and professional caregivers to learn more about the person with dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease affects 5.8 million Americans, 65,000 Iowans and 230,000 Illinoisans.

Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter Executive Director Doug Bickford says losing the ability to communicate becomes more difficult as the disease progresses. “Research has shown that painting allows memories to come through parts of the brain not affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia,” said Bickford. “It’s powerful when someone, who may struggle to express themselves verbally, can clearly communicate what they’re thinking or feeling through their artwork,” he added.

Several assisted livings, memory cares, adult day centers and long-term care communities use the program to provide a voice to those who call their residential communities home. The process allows staff and caregivers to learn more about the person – helping them “see” the person and not just the disease.

Active Day’s Center Director Amy Iams says Memories in the Making provides Active Day’s members with an opportunity to engage and showcase the hope and sense of purpose for their members. “It gives our members a sense of accomplishment and an avenue to express themselves,” said Iams. “For our families, it is a reminder of who their loved one is at their core, and in some cases some memories that they have shared. For the community, it is a rallying cause to join and support as many of us have been touched by a family member, friend, or community member with a dementia-related illness,” she added.

Development Specialist Megan Olsen with the Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter says this event is so much more than just a fundraiser, “It provides a chance for those living with dementia to share their life experiences through watercolors. It brings together businesses and non-profits to raise money in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. But most importantly, it brings light and love through our artists and carries on the legacies of their lives.”

     Memories in the Making is a night of food, live music, a silent and live art auction honoring those living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. The proceeds from Memories in the Making allow the Alzheimer’s Association to continue to provide disease education, sustain caregiver support programs, advance critical research for treatments and work towards the first survivor of Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to the auction of featured framed paintings, artists’ note cards and unframed water colors will also be available.

The event takes place May 17, 2019 at The Spotlight Event Center, 1800 7th Avenue in Moline, Illinois. Doorsopen at 5:30 p.m. and the live auction begins at 7:00 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Visit QCMIM19.givesmart.com for more information – including tickets, wrist bands, sponsorships, and auction items. For more information, please contact Megan Olsen with the Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter at mkolsen@alz.org, (563) 293-8056, alz.org/Iowa.

Participating locations include: Active Day, Amber Ridge, Avonlea Cottage, Friendship Manor, Generations at Rock Island, Grand Haven, Heartland Health Care Center, Jane’s Place, Liberty Village of Geneseo, Overlook Village Retirement Community, Park Vista, Ridgecrest Village, Rosewood Care Center, Senior Star @ Elmore Place, Silvercrest Garner, St Anthony’s Nursing & Rehab, and The Fountains Senior Living.

About the Alzheimer’s Association®

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org or call (800) 272-3900.