Navigating the Unique Challenges of the Aging

Honoring the Individual with Dementia and Memory Loss 3 CE event presented by Sivan Perdue, MS, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LPAT, includes film screening
About this Event

On this World Alzheimer's Day, the Pennsylvania Art Therapy Association (PAATA) is taking the opportunity to raise awareness around, educate, encourage support of and demystify dementia.

This presentation explores the challenges and rewards of providing art therapy for individuals with dementia, emphasizing the unique power of art and creative engagement to enhance quality of life. It covers understanding dementia versus typical aging, choosing suitable art mediums, and nurturing therapeutic relationships. Through real-life scenarios and interactive discussions, participants will gain practical strategies to work with individuals living with dementia.

Included is a screening of Keys Bags Names Words hope in aging and dementia, a Cynthia Stone Media production. Keys Bags Names Words is a hopeful and inspiring lens portraying stories of both the personal and global impacts of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, while following a cohort of young scientists and artists from around the world as they harness every aspect of creativity, humor and compassion to lead the way towards hope and resilience.

Objectives:

1. Differentiate between dementia and normal aging

2. Describe the unique challenges and clinical focus of working with individuals living with dementia and their caregivers

3. Understand and be able to implement the adaptations that need to be made to create a supportive art environment for individuals living with dementia

4. Discuss 3 aspects to consider when promoting healthy aging

Required Art Materials:

Piece of paper (note paper is fine)

Materials of individuals choice to create a response piece (watercolor, oil pastels, appropriate paper, etc)

Sivan Perdue, an art therapist located in Salisbury, MD, is dedicated to advancing mental health care for older adults, with a particular focus on those living with dementia. Sivan earned her bachelor's degree in studio art from Nazareth College of Rochester and continued her education at Nazareth, obtaining a master's degree in art therapy. Operating out of Perdue Art Therapy, her private practice, Sivan seamlessly blends creativity with therapeutic support. She specializes in assisting individuals coping with dementia and leads a tailored support program designed for people navigating the complexities of caring for their partners during this challenging phase. Beyond her studio practice, Sivan holds certification in Dementia and Sexual Health. In a consulting capacity, she collaborates with diverse facilities and organizations, offering guidance in the development of environments and policies that foster sexual health and affirm identity.

The Pennsylvania Art Therapy Association has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider. ACEP No. 6847. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. The Pennsylvania Art Therapy Association is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs. Three hours of Continuing Education clock hours are available for this program. Partial Credits are not available. Attendees must attend the full event to be eligible for credits. Refunds are not available for this event.