Starting in January of 2014, the Seattle Department of Parks & Recreation will pilot a variety of recreation programming geared to persons who live with memory loss, and their care partners. These ‘dementia-friendly’ activities are intended to enhance the daily lives, and experiences, of those living with early stage dementia. Programs will offer participants opportunities to engage, create, learn and be active in a stimulating and supportive environment.
Seattle Parks & Recreation will work with community partners including the Greenwood Senior Center, the Alzheimer’s Association, Aegis on Madison, Elderwise and Outdoors for All, on offering dementia-friendly recreation programs such as a fitness class at Miller Community Center, watercolor painting at the Seattle Japanese Garden and Volunteer Park, a snowshoe hike near Snoqualmie Pass, a memory loss walking group at Woodland Park Zoo, and a volunteer program at Cherry Street Food Bank.
Dementia-friendly recreation programs are being piloted in response to the growing number of people living with dementia in the community, and the recognition that persons with dementia can lead full and meaningful lives. Over 5 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to triple by the year 2050. Many who are diagnosed feel fearful, lost and alone. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Many living with memory loss are finding opportunities to stay connected and enjoy life.
“It’s exciting that we’re working with community partners to expand opportunities for people living with memory loss,” says Seattle Parks Recreation Specialist Mari Becker. “Even more exciting is that people living with memory loss are engaged in designing the kind of programs they want to see happen.”
To get more information, volunteer or register for a program, please contact Becker at 206/684-4664 or mari.becker@seattle.gov