FL Adult Day Care Facility Showcases Works By Older Adults, ‘Aging With Dignity’

SARASOTA, FL — An art show on display through June at Town Square University Parkway, 8450 Lockwood Ridge Road in Sarasota, focuses on “the creative spirit and resilience of older adults, including those living with dementia,” as well as “aging with dignity,” Skyler Betts, director of business development and enrollment said.

The 1950s-themed adult day care facility — a full-medical model — caters to seniors with dementia and other issues, whether they’re recovering from cancer, have Parkinson’s disease, or physical impairments, Betts told Patch.

The 15,000-square-foot center, which opened about two years ago, boasts a movie theater, a diner, a park, a billiards room, a barbershop and an arts studio.

Town Square also offers enriching activities and programming that encourage social engagement.

“Purposeful events that are meant to give them a positive outlook, give them awareness, give them something to look forward to,” Betts said. “And not just for the individual, but for their families. A lot of family members are watching their loved ones decline in front of their eyes. These are pilots, doctors, dentists, professors, teachers — the disease does not discriminate.”

A recent six-week art program culminated in the exhibit, “Together We Blossom: Birds, Butterflies & Botanicals.”

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The show “explores themes of transformation, transition and growth — symbolized by

birds, butterflies and botanicals,” according to a news release from Town Square. “These images reflect the beauty that can emerge when individuals are supported with compassion and creativity at every stage of life.”

Works displayed in the show include acrylic and watercolor painting, mixed media collages, 3D floral sculptures, photography, and collaborative community art pieces.

A stark difference can be seen in the clients who participate in arts programs at Town Square, Betts added.

“These artistic forms bring energy to parts of the brain that need that stimulation,” she said. “Life is so short and so anytime we can really bring these individuals joy and purpose and dignity, we’re going to go above and beyond to it.”

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