Lewis on his tambourine with Janie
His is a world of utter silence. Clouded behind Alzheimer's. For Lewis Guthrie, every day was the same until his wife, Barbara, learned about the Citrus Memorial Health Foundation YMCA’s Art from the Heart program. Offered in partnership with Coping with Dementia, LLC, Art from the Heart provides Alzheimer's and dementia patients and their caregivers with the opportunity to come together with music and art, and connect with their memories.
“When I heard about Art from the Heart, I felt this would be beneficial for Lewis (86 years old) as he enjoys being with people. I feel that he more than enjoys himself. In fact, he blooms with the love and attention of everyone. I see Lewis become a different person as he participates in singing and playing the musical instruments,” notes Barbara.
The initiative was started in 2018 by a few dedicated volunteers and Coping with Dementia, LLC. Following a brief COVID hiatus, the program has been up and running since 2023. Thanks to the overwhelming community response, the program has expanded to Crystal River. Art from the Heart has 26 participants currently at both locations (including caregivers who are required to attend).
Janie Funk-Pearce, Active Older Adult Program Coordinator at the Citrus Y notes:
“Lewis is just one example of joy, felt and shared, within our program. When playing his favorite instrument, the tambourine, Lewis will stand to sing, make many announcements and dance continuously, all with an endless smile. Barbara, his wife, takes joy in her husband’s happiness.”
Garrett Adkins, Senior Director of Branch Operations at the Citrus Y notes “Lewis never talks at home. It’s amazing to see him up leading songs, dancing and singing. There are few options for activities for dementia patients in the area, and often their caregivers are not able to break away due to their need for support. This program helps to alleviate issues that the patient is experiencing and provides support to their caregivers."
“Art from the Heart feedback has been very positive! We often hear that this is addressing a community need for the county. Success stories like Lewis's are amazing. He sings songs from his childhood and will request favorites that help to jog his memory. He leaves with a smile on his face.”
If you’d like to donate to Art from the Heart or any Y program, please click here.
Published Monday, July 29, 2024.