The Region IV Area Agency on Aging (RIVAAA) is on a mission to help the community understand the unique needs of people living with a dementia diagnosis, as well as help those with dementia feel included and supported by the community.
To advance their efforts, RIVAAA has teamed up with the Twin City Players to present “Steering With The Skid,” a one-act play designed to help family members, caregivers, local businesses and the community learn more about dementia and help to support those with all forms of memory loss.
“Steering into the Skid” tells the story of Tim and Amanda, fictional characters who progressively deal with the early effects of a dementia diagnosis. The play takes place in one-month increments during car rides the couple takes together. As the months pass, the audience sees the subtle changes and adjustments the couple deals with.
“This event is an opportunity to bring together the arts community, as well as invite the community in to see a play and have a conversation about dementia and its impact in our community,” said RIVAAA CEO Christine Vanlandingham. “Really, the importance of this can’t be overstated when it talks about reducing the fear and isolation that all too often accompanies a dementia diagnosis.”
The play was written by husband-wife duo Arnold Johnston and Deborah Ann Percy, whose experience navigating loved ones with Alzheimer’s – as well as their own concerns about aging – inspired the play.
The free event will be held from 5 p.m to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 9th at the Campus for Creative Aging, 2920 Lakeview Ave., St. Joseph. The play will begin at 5:30 p.m.
“We are excited to be building a local arts and public health partnership with the RIVAAA” said Andrew Glisson, President of Twin City Players Southwest Michigan. “Through bringing the experiences of community members living with dementia or memory loss to the stage we can support greater community awareness, dialogue and action for building an inclusive and thriving community for all.”
To learn more or reserve seats, call the RIVAAA at (269) 982-7748. Seats can also be reserved at campusforcreativeaging.org.
By Ryan Yuenger
ryany@wsjm.com
