Seniors with cognitive disorders find 'a guiding hand' at art museum

Credit: Ti Gong

Volunteers from Shanghai Lida University assisted seniors with cognitive disorders who toured a contemporary art exhibition at the Being Art Museum over the weekend.

On Sunday, students led by their teacher, well-known dancer Bu Zhicheng, provided an in-depth introduction of the artworks for the senior citizens.

Bu said that it was the first time that they were providing "guide" services for elderly people with cognitive disorders.

"I am really proud of what the students have done and their patience in dealing with the elderly, despite the fact that many of them lack social experience," Bu said."We're thinking about including more interactive programs in the future to help relieve their symptoms."

The event was organized by Arts Access, an organization that aims to improve barrier-free guiding services at cultural venues.

With their assistance, seniors with Alzheimer's disease will have better access to arts programs and facilities, as well as gain inspiration and energy from the interaction of exhibitions.

According to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of Alzheimer's patients will exceed 30 million by 2050, which is roughly three times the current number.

The event also aims to raise public awareness of cognitive diseases and encourage individuals to provide elders and their families with additional assistance, the organizers said.

Credit: Ti Gong