 “The expressive arts are extremely effective in reaching people with dementia and bringing joy and meaning into their lives,” said Christina Cosgrove, director of Alzheimer Dementia Programs at the Vermont Veteran's Home, in a press release from VAE.“We’ve seen residents come alive, reconnect to their passion, to what they really love; it’s an awakening that carries over into their whole quality of life.”

One such program brought guest artist Michael Wingfield of Portland, Maine — a drummer, performer and teacher with more than 20 years of experience in the African-Caribbean percussion arts and culture — and his “The Rhythm of Life” to residents and staff at Tewksbury Hospital in March 2005.Tewksbury is a comprehensive care center for adults with chronic medical and mental illnesses in Tewksbury, Massachusetts.