Making Art Makes for a Great Day

State Representative Bill Adolph Visits Art Class Reprensentative Adolph visits a collage making class taught by

artist Kezia Lechner. Representative Adolph sponsored a

state grant that helps make these classes available.

"Our goal is that every day is a great day" says Meaghan Brown, director of MCSS adult day services programs in Broomall and Upper Darby.

Meaghan and her staff make great days for men and women who need care and support during the day. Instead of being stuck at home, a frail older person who comes to an adult day program can enjoy a wide variety of activities, chat with friends and get the care she needs.

"My mother blossomed when she started to attend" says the daughter of one of our participants.

Creating art - a mask, a collage, or a painting - is one way to have a great day at the Lawrence Park adult day program in Broomall. There are many others, with activities tailored to the interests and abilities of participants. Exercise, singing, book club, chatting over coffee...the activities vary daily. Staff monitor health conditions, give medication and, if needed, provide personal care in a dignified way.

Art classes are fun, and they may also improve health. Recent studies have shown definite health benefits for older people who participate in art classes taught by professionals. The current classes at Lawrence Park are led by Kezia Lechner, a professional visual artist with years of experience teaching older men and women.

MCSS runs three adult day programs:

• Lawrence Park Adult Day Services in Broomall 610-325-1600
• Barclay Square Adult Day Servicesin Upper Darby 610-626-0662
• Main Line Adult Day Care in Bryn Mawr 610-527-4220

For more information, contact Meaghan Brown brownmea@mlhs.org or Pam Barton bartonp@mlhs.org