Test program engages both sides of the brain simultaneously and stimulates cognitive function
It was all smiles for Keith Conine, a client of the Bloomingdale Adult Day Services Center, and his caregiver and wife of 48 years, Betty, along with Aging Services staff. They greeted each other outdoors and maintained social distancing during Painting Under the Shade, a pilot program held recently at the Plant City Adult Day Services Center. The Conines drove from Bloomingdale to participate in the program. It was the first time in two years that clients and staff met face to face.
Painting Under the Shade is a first step for Hillsborough County Aging Services as it moves back to holding in-person programs in advance of reopening. Aging Services Adult Day Services Centers provide a safe location and stimulating programs during the day for seniors with cognitive impairments. Enhanced mood, decreased agitation, and reduced stress, fear and anxiety are benefits associated with the painting program, along with an opportunity for seniors to use both sides of their brain simultaneously and tap into their creativity.
With an array of brushes and a paint pallet of assorted colors, Keith began painting a pre-outlined canvas while Betty watched and assisted when needed. With each selected color and deliberate brush stroke, the image comes to life. Keith carefully maneuvered the canvas to more easily reach the top of the outline. Rather than risk smudging the already painted portion, he flipped the canvas upside down to reach the letters. After about 30 minutes, his colorful creation was ready for viewing.
Keith began attending the Bloomingdale Adult Day Services Center about five years ago. "He didn't want to attend at first," Betty explained, but after about a week Keith developed good friendships and now wouldn't miss an opportunity to see his friends. When asked what his favorite activity is, Keith said, "Dominoes, now that Mike taught me how to play. It's easy. I thought it would be complicated."
Betty, who accompanies her husband to the center, said, "I love to sit and listen to him laugh." The last two years have been a challenge for the Conines while the adult day centers have been shut down. While both participated in the virtual caregivers support group and brain booster activities, they look forward to returning to in-person activities.
Centers reopening
Of the four Adult Day Services Centers operated by the County, two are scheduled to reopen on May 9: Bloomingdale Adult Day Services Center, 3940 Canoga Park Dr., Brandon, FL 33511, and Phyllis Busansky Adult Day Services Center, 4102 W. Spruce St. Tampa, FL 33607.
The centers at Northlakes, 2640 N. Lakeview Drive, Tampa, FL 33618, and Plant City, 1205 S. Waller St., Plant City, FL 33566, are actively recruiting clients. For more information about Adult Day Services, call (813) 272-5250.
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