GWAF PARTNERS AiM
ARTS FOR BRAIN HEALTH

The Gabi Williams Alzheimer’s Foundation renewed her continued relationship with the Arts in Medicine (AiM), in a program -Arts for Brain Health. AiM is a leading foundation that aims to use diverse forms of artistic expressions to facilitate healing and hope for patients and their caregivers. The program enrolled 18 participants with instructors in various forms of Art, led by Mr. Kunle Adewale, the CEO of Art in Medicine fellowship - Aim

The training was held at the OT department, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba. It was held every Wednesdays from 18th August through September, 2021. Participants were drawn from care homes, Occupational Therapy, Guidance & Counseling and Psychology unit of Federal Neuro Hopital. About 18 participants were trained on the how to create and use software app to create visual art, the use of music for therapy and virtual reality. Participants were trained on how to optimize available natural environment and objects to improve the lives of the Aged and quality of lives as well as tell the stories of the people they are caring for and keep them creative, learn new skills and showcase the creativity of the senior citizens.

The project, Art for Brain Health explores the positive impactful of technological use and upscale in care delivery and a tool for engaging the senior citizens and their care givers. The project is aimed at creating training and empowerment for caregivers and the seniors in the use of enhanced software and graphic skill on various forms of Arts – virtual and performing Art to enhance care delivery

The project was divided into 3 phases; while emphasis on the 1st and 2nd phase is targeted at the training of care givers, and application and upscale of acquired skills in care homes with practical art sessions, paintings and songs. The scale up session has since continued in selected home in Lagos State with practical art work sessions in those homes. The 3rd phase is planned to feature gala night in the first quarter of 2022 where works created in those sessions will be auctioned to recognize the creativity of the seniors and support care homes and related institutions.