In memorium: Sean Caufield 1972-2019 Executive Director of I’m Still Here 2010-2017

A life fulfilling approach to living with dementia

LEGACY PROGRAMS

I’m Still Here Legacy programs were created, starting with Artz, in the early 2000s by Sean Caulfield and John Zeisel. These engagement programs support creative thinking and ideas utilizing arts, culture, music, community activities, exercise, and more to help those living with dementia to feel fulfilled. Sean served as the Executive Director of the I’m Still Here Foundation from 2010 to 2017 and was dedicated to improving the lives of those living with dementia and their families. The Legacy Programs are dedicated in memory of Sean Caulfield. “Art has the ability to transcend the limitations of conventional communication and language, leading to rich emotional connections and enabling people with Alzheimer’s to break out of their shells, to become awakened.” Sean Caulfield The I’m Still Here Legacy Programs have been replicated throughout the United States and abroad and continue to be offered in many locations. Brief information is provided here along with an active link to an existing program. ISH provides guidance for organizations that seek to implement new programs in their communities. .

Meet Me at the Movies is a participatory activity using short clips from classic films and TV shows followed by audience discussion. These are often classic movies well known to the participants. The experience promotes meaningful interactions between those diagnosed with dementia, their care partners, family members and their communities. SEE: https://caregiversmatter.org/MemoryCafeActivities/lc/22355/meet-me-at-the-movies

Meet Me at the Museum is an activity where participants view and engage in discussions about works of art. Participants talk about what they see and the feelings that art works evoke. This program serves as an enjoyable social gathering that helps with verbal expression and focuses attention. I’m Still Here launched this concept in the early 2000s and it has been adapted by museums throughout the United States and abroad. The Museum of Modern Art in New York launched their Alzheimer’s Project in 2007 which was developed with I’m Still Here. MoMA has an extensive program and guidebook which is downloadable and free. Other ongoing programs are found at the Frye Museum in Seattle, the Louvre in Paris, and the Nasher Museum at Duke University. SEE: https://www.moma.org/visit/accessibility/meetme/

It Takes a Village embraces the local community through activities in local venues for musical events or to visit book shops, parks and cultural sites. This program takes people into the community, not only helping them, but helping to reduce the stigma around dementia that people cannot participate in community activities. The program was established in Brookline, MA, in 2016, in cooperation with Goddard House Assisted Living. Most recently, ISH supported the development of a community program offered by the Martha’s Vineyard Center for Living. SEE: https://www.facebook.com/VillageBrookline

ARTZ (Arts for Alzheimer’s) enhances the cultural and creative life of people living with dementia. Amateur and professional artists volunteer to perform or work with people in dementia care facilities or day settings in the community. Once again, engagement helps those with dementia to express themselves in fun and creative ways. SEE: https://www.artzphilly.org

LEGACY PROGRAMS

Legacy Programs

Innovation Programs

Contact: executivedirector@imstillhere.org PHONE: 781-816-5151 EMAIL: info@imstillhere.org I'm Still Here PO Box 323 Lexington, MA 02420