Ignite and fuel memories with SPARK!
By Patte Smith
Each month I am amazed by the people and organizations that make a difference to individuals, families and the community where we live. Behind the scenes so to speak, these groups touch the lives of people who need a little kindness, a spark of caring.
The Alzheimer’s Association’s SPARK! cultural programs (SPARK) offers individuals with early memory loss and their families the opportunity to attend cultural programs throughout the greater Denver metro area. A variety of museums and community partners have joined SPARK! so these individuals can enjoy interactive and engaging programs. Held at various venues, such as the Denver Art Museum, Swallow Hill Music or the Lone Tree Arts Center, these settings are in a relaxed atmosphere that is welcoming and stimulating. Attendance of multiple programs in different locations is highly encouraged by SPARK!
Coming up at the Denver Art Museum, Active Minds presents Poetry Reflections, an interactive poetry program designed specifically for this audience. The program draws material from well-known classics and other material with strong thematic and evocative elements. The objective is to revisit and enjoy familiar poems and use poetry to trigger memories and enjoy those reminiscences together.
Active Minds is held quarterly from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and is free for registered participants.
Upcoming programs are:
March 16 – Meet on Level 4 of the North Building
June 15 – Meet on Lower Level of the Hamilton Building
September 21 – Meet on Lower Level of the Hamilton Building
December 21 – Meet on Lower Level of the Hamilton Building
Art & About Tours at the Denver Art Museum are designed especially for visitors with early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia and their care partners. Visitors are invited to experience, explore and connect with art, as well as each other, during this monthly conversation-based tour. Themes change on a monthly basis so check online for more information.
Art & About Tours are held on the second Thursday of every month from February through August, and participants meet from 1:15 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at level 2, north building in the Duncan Pavilion. Tour and general admission to the museum are free for registered participants.
Space is limited for both programs. To reserve a spot for Art & About Tours, visit www.denverartmuseum.org/art-about-tours.
For Active Minds, visit www.denverartmuseum.org/calendar/active-minds-poetry-reflections-march-16-2017. You can call 720-913-0074 or email dschulz@denverartmuseum.org.
