Oak Crest Opens Intermissions Enrichment Program

PARKVILLE, MD---Residents and employees of Oak Crest, the Erickson Living retirement community, cut the ribbon on the new Intermissions Enrichment Program at a ceremony held in February.
The Intermissions Enrichment  Program at Oak Crest offers a meaningful array of creative and therapeutic experiences to promote success, enjoyment and independence within a safe, familiar environment.  Built on personal interests, individual strengths & abilities, the day program provides a comfortable and dignified approach to engage participants and maximize:
• Mental function & attention • Memory • Self-expression • Communication
Tammy Willis, MT-BC, is the Program Coordinator.  "Intermissions truly serves a dual purpose.  Caregivers can relax, take a break and have personal time to attend to their own needs and well- being, while those residents participating are involved in a meaningful, personalized  program," she stated.
"The fact that it offers a valuable respite to our caregivers is something I love about our program," described Ms. Willis, who is also a board-certified Musical Therapist. "Family members benefit from knowing their loved one is engaged in a welcoming day program that is intentionally structured for success, enjoyment and independence in a safe environment."
Music and creative arts therapy are two special elements of the program.
Music Therapy
Music is a natural holistic healer that touches special places in us and takes on a healing role as a way to get beyond difficulties and find joy.  Music therapy is the evidence-based use of music within a therapeutic relationship in which music is used by a credentialed therapist to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs.    Creative Arts Therapy
Creative Arts Therapy is coordinated by established health professionals who spark compelling results.  Through creative involvement, abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of life.  Expressive therapies provide avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words.  Research supports such effectiveness in:
• Physical rehabilitation and movement • Increasing motivation and engagement • Emotional support • Expression of feelings

About Oak Crest:  Oak Crest is one of seventeen continuing care retirement communities managed by Erickson Living.  Located in Parkville, Maryland, the scenic 87-acre campus is home to more than 2,100 residents.  Oak Crest is the ideal greater Baltimore retirement destination offering a true sense of community, convenience beyond compare and a sensible financial structure.

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