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Arts in Mind: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Museum Programs for Persons Living with Young-Onset and Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease

“This paper reflects on Arts in Mind, an ongoing museum-based program for those with Young-onset Alzheimer’s or in the early stages of memory loss. Codeveloped in 2019 by the authors, an art therapist with experience in Alzheimer’s clinical trials research and two museum educators. Arts in Mind is a monthly program that invites people living with Young-onset Alzheimer’s and their care partners to look at and make art together. Arts in Mind responds to a previously unmet need for programming specifically designed for the Young-onset Alzheimer’s population and individuals in early stages of the disease. Sessions are anchored in the art encounter, accessible, responsive, and experiential. 

 

Additionally, the program [was?] a site of mentorship for the next generation of art therapists, museum educators and medical professionals. This paper offers a replicable and sustainable partnership model for museum and art therapy- based memory loss programs for an often overlooked population.” (Abstract)