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Connections: Art and dementia program

Connections is a free activity for people living with dementia and their carers. Based on the National Gallery of Australia's Art and Alzheimer's program, Connections is run by trained gallery facilitators in a welcoming, flexible and fully accessible environment.

Residents and their carers attend Bayside Gallery across a series of tours delivered by gallery facilitators.

The program provides a unique opportunity for people living with dementia to connect, interpret and express experiences through art works during a discussion-based tour of an exhibition.

Connections was highly commended at the 2013 Museum Australia (Victoria) Awards for excellence in program delivery for a small museum.

Connections provides the opportunity for people living with dementia to:

  • reconnect with their community by extending social networks.
  • participate in a meaningful activity that fosters personal growth in an environment where their intellect is respected and valued.
  • improve quality of life through a re-established sense of self by connecting with memories, insights and experiences.
  • develop new ways of communicating through mutual enjoyment and companionship.
  • explore and exchange ideas about art and artists.

More information

Connections is open to people living with dementia in residential care facilities, who can regularly attend across a series of four weekly tours with gallery staff. Note, carers from the residential care facilities must be present at all times.

Sessions usually run between Wednesday to Friday 10.30–11.30am.

Bookings are essential as availability is limited.

email: gallery@bayside.vic.gov.au