The Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders collaborates with the National Theatre of Northern Greece – “In –house theatre”

Saturday 30 April 2011

The Greek Association of Alzheimer’s Disease, within its efforts to improve people with dementia and their and caregivers’ quality of life, is collaborating with the National Theatre of Northern Greece (NTNG), offering “in –house” theatrical performances.

A series of visits to houses of people with dementia has been organised by the Association’s home care team and by the actors of NTNG, who will be visiting patients in their homes and keep them company while reading to them theatrical texts, monologues, fairy tales etc. The visits last about 45 minutes and the feedback from the first patients and their families was really exciting. The first patient – an 80 year old woman- had the chance to make a trip down memory lane, back to her childhood through the mini theatrical performance that was held in her home.

Research has proved that art combats depression, boosts brain functioning and makes patients more social. The Greek Association is including art in its activities, using it for educational programmes targeted at people with dementia but also in a manner that enhances their quality of life.

The Greek Association has been monitoring the social activities of the NTNG and thought that this joint event would prove an excellent opportunity to offer to patients and their families a unique experience.