A free event will bring together experts and community members to raise awareness about dementia and available support programs.
The KWed Mini Dementia Expo is set for Tuesday, 10 June, at Kedron-Wavell.
Attendees will enjoy a special performance by the Bright ‘N’ Sparks Dementia Choir and presentations from experts, including representatives from HammondCare, occupational therapist Alison Cowan, and Debbie Brittain, a Churchill Fellow and program leader and developer of the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) Art and Dementia Program.
Debbie hopes to inspire attendees with key takeaways, including the benefits of creative arts for wellbeing, her findings on global best practices in dementia programs, and the importance of social connection for people living with dementia. She said the globally recognised Art and Dementia Program takes place in therapeutic spaces inside the Queensland Art Gallery to draw on the benefits of psychosocial engagements.
Exploring the Role of Art, Music, and Community in Dementia Care
“It’s a morning program where two specially selected artworks are explored together in a slow-looking approach,” she said. “The visual aesthetics, stories, places that the group members are drawn to most are what we discover. Music, tactile opportunities and other sensory-based elements are incorporated, which ground us in the present moment, to enrich, inspire and intellectually stimulate, using the artworks as the visual prompt.
“Afterwards, participants experience a hands-on making activity that involves colour, texture, nature, music – meaningful ways to be actively engaged that relates to the artworks and conversations we’ve shared.
“Many of our current participants have been coming each month for three years or more because they feel the program enhances their wellbeing and improves their quality of life.”
She said the program validates each person’s identity and abilities rather than focusing on loss or deficits.
“There is a growing body of evidence that shows arts institutions such as art galleries and museums are vital community places for human flourishing,” she said. “Institutions like QAGOMA have such great potential as existing community assets that can unlock their collections to support holistic ways of caring for people with dementia alongside clinical care.”
Rebecka Willson, Engagement Officer at the Brighton Wellness Hub, will introduce the Bright ‘N’ Sparks Brisbane North Dementia Choir, which supports people with dementia and their carers through singing and movement. The choir promotes fun, social connection, vocal strength and overall quality of life.
In addition to the presentations, the expo will host display tables from local organisations dedicated to supporting people living with dementia and their families.
Get your tickets to the expo here.
For details about QAGOMA’s program, email groupbookings@qagoma.qld.gov.au
KWed Mini Dementia Expo
- Tuesday, 10 June, 10.30am-1pm
- Kedron-Wavell (Kittyhawk Room)
- 21 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside
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