WAUSAU, WI.- Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia and their caregivers can now participate in SPARK!, a new and free program at the Woodson Art Museum that uses paintings and sculptures to stimulate meaningful conversation followed by an opportunity to be creative.

According to education curators Jayna Hintz and Erin Narloch, SPARK! is designed for two distinct groups: individuals with memory loss who live at home and those living in long-term care. For both groups, the emphasis is on providing a meaningful social experience for all involved.

Hintz remarked, “Based on our first two experiences in January – one with couples and one with residents from Marywood Convalescent Center – we are excited to roll out this opportunity. What we facilitated and observed was both encouraging and heart-warming.”

SPARK! is held on Wednesday from 2 – 3:30 p.m. and requires registration by calling 845-7010. Upcoming dates for those living at home are February 24, March 24, April 28, May 26, and June 23. Health care providers at residential care facilities can call to schedule times on different dates.

To register or for additional information, contact Hintz or Narloch at 845-7010 or museum@lywam.org.

Hintz and Narloch developed SPARK! thanks to a June 2009 planning grant from the Helen Bader Foundation, Milwaukee, and with expertise and input from community partners that work with memory-loss patients. The Woodson is one of five Wisconsin museums that received an inaugural grant.