The Claude Pepper Center proudly celebrated its inaugural year of the Opening Minds Through Art (OMA) program, which offers inspiring art-making initiatives for individuals living with dementia.
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Short Summary:
- OMA, developed by gerontologists at Scripps Gerontology Center, facilitates art-making sessions for people with dementia.
- The program fosters connections between student interns and older adults, enhancing both parties’ well-being.
- Upcoming exhibitions will showcase the artworks created during this transformative year.
In September 2023, the Claude Pepper Center at Florida State University (FSU) launched the Opening Minds Through Art (OMA) program, an innovative initiative aimed at enriching the lives of individuals living with dementia through the creative process of art-making. Over the past year, OMA has flourished into a beacon of hope and connection in the Tallahassee area.
OMA’s unique approach empowers older adults, particularly those with dementia, to experience autonomy and dignity while expressing themselves through art. This program stands as a failure-free, intergenerational art-making venture developed by the esteemed Scripps Gerontology Center at Miami University. By fostering opportunities for creative self-expression, the OMA program promotes not only an artistic outlet but also essential social engagement among participants.
“OMA builds bridges across age and cognitive barriers through art,” said a spokesperson for the Claude Pepper Center, highlighting the program’s mission to weave meaningful connections between generations.
This dynamic program pairs student interns from various academic backgrounds—including Sociology, Public Health, Psychology, Law, and Medicine—with older adults residing in two assisted living facilities in Tallahassee. Trained by a certified OMA facilitator, the interns, who assume the role of creative facilitators, engage one-on-one with their elder counterparts. This mentorship leads to the formation of profound, personal relationships that thrive on mutual creativity.
During the program, participants engage in weekly art sessions that encourage unrestrained creativity. By expressing thoughts and emotions through art, those living with dementia find joy, satisfaction, and mental stimulation that traditional activities may overlook.
Positive Outcomes for Participants
- Research indicates that OMA leads to more expressions of pleasure for participants compared to other activities.
- Increased engagement and overall well-being have been reported among individuals with dementia involved in OMA sessions.
- Student interns benefit from enhanced understandings and caregiving skills related to dementia, along with increased comfort and affection towards those they work with.
As Dr. Larry Polivka, a noted scholar and advocate for aging and public policy, commented on the significance of the OMA project, he stated:
“Participating in the OMA program allows students to gain essential insights into the experiences of older adults. This insight transcends academic understanding and opens their eyes to the realities of life with dementia.”
The culmination of this vibrant year will be marked by two art exhibitions on Saturday, April 27th, showcasing the impressive artwork created by the participants. These exhibitions aim to celebrate the achievements of the artists while raising community awareness surrounding memory care diseases.
A Legacy of Service
Claude Denson Pepper, a remarkable figure in American politics, dedicated his life to the advocacy of the elderly and underprivileged. His legacy and vision for a community-centric approach towards the aging population are embodied in the values that guide the Claude Pepper Center. As a proponent of empowering the elderly, Pepper’s life work inspired the establishment of programs such as OMA. The center continues to strive towards honoring his dedication through various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for older adults.
In addition to its core mission, the Claude Pepper Center remains committed to expanding access to the arts for all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic standing or mental capacity. The values championed by Senator Pepper resonate within the center’s ongoing efforts, aiming to ensure that every community member experiences the enriching power of creativity.
Future Endeavors
The success of OMA has prompted the Claude Pepper Center to explore further community outreach plans. With aspirations to establish training facilities across Florida, the center intends to widen its efforts to offer similar art programs throughout the state.
“We believe in the benefits for all involved and are committed to making this a reality across the state of Florida and beyond,” a representative from the Claude Pepper Center stated.
Moreover, as technology advances in the field of art-making and engagement through video and online platforms, the center also seeks to incorporate more tech-driven elements into their sessions. By leveraging technology, the OMA program can ensure accessibility and continuous community involvement, regardless of geographical limitations.
As new developments unfold, the Claude Pepper Center remains optimistic about the vast potential that the OMA program can offer in the realm of dementia care. By blending creativity with compassionate service, the center exemplifies the spirit of community and a commitment to improving the lives of those facing the challenges of dementia.
For those interested in learning more about the OMA program and staying updated on upcoming events, please visit the Claude Pepper Center’s official page.
In line with these innovative endeavors, the Claude Pepper Center calls on more volunteers and community members to contribute to this enriching initiative. As emphasized by the late Senator Pepper, “What have I done today to lighten the burden upon those who suffer?” This heartfelt call to action continues to echo through the center’s mission and projects.
This celebration of art through the Opening Minds Through Art program highlights a significant aspect of the intersection between creativity and public service, showcasing a powerful narrative in the ongoing quest for empathy and assistance for the aging population.