Open Mic

The staff of Isle at Watercrest–Mansfield, the all-new stand-alone comprehensive health services community, recently learned how to facilitate water color painting with their memory care and dementia residents. This class is part of the “Memories in the Making” program created by the Alzheimer’s Association. This special program allows residents to recall precious memories through hands-on activities like water coloring.

“Our staff is really excited about this new program because it gives them an opportunity to participate in a fun activity with our residents and also learn more about their lives,” said Cindy Frazee, community life director, Isle at Watercrest—Mansfield. “After our staff took the instruction class, they immediately started working with the residents on water coloring. It has proved to be highly enjoyable and relaxing for all.”

The “Memories in the Making” project first began in 1986 when Alzheimer’s Association Board Member Selly Jenny discovered how much dementia patients could reveal about themselves through art. According to Jenny, every picture that is created is a visual representation of the feelings and emotions trapped inside the dementia patient, which can’t come out in other ways. When the painting is complete, it brings happiness and a feeling of accomplishment to the artist. These paintings capture the person that is still deep inside of them.

This has already proved true with the Isle at Watercrest—Mansfield residents. One woman painted a lady bug and recalled that her daughter loved lady bugs as a child and enjoyed playing with them. Painting a sunflower triggered the memory of another resident. She told of gardening with her family and how much she used to enjoy the outdoors. These memories have come to light after just one art session. The staff of Isle at Watercrest—Mansfield is excited to see what memories are shared in the future, and how this program will benefit the health and memory of their residents.

Isle at Watercrest—Mansfield is located on the Watercrest at Mansfield campus at 200 East Debbie Lane in Mansfield, TX. With a total of 93 apartments in the community, Isle at Watercrest—Mansfield offers assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing, and a month-to-month rental agreement. In addition, Isle offers short-term and long-term rehabilitation and care. Community services and amenities include a café, business library, salon, landscaped courtyards, clubroom, private dining room, wellness center with fitness equipment, weekly housekeeping and linen service, scheduled transportation and daily social activities. For more information, call (888) 765-5974, or visit www.islewatercrest.com.