Improv helps  overcome memory loss

Martin tosses out an idea, and the rest of them run with it. They dance, gesture, and act out their feelings, with only a few moments to think about how they’ll express themselves.

“This is all about getting back to the root of who they are,” he said.

The class is part of a series of programs, including folk dance, film screenings, and sing-alongs, designed for people experiencing memory loss.

Reginald and Betty Evans are on their fourth class. Reginald’s memory is fading a bit, and he says these activities help keep him engaged.

“Since that day one, I think it’s helped (him) be more expressive,” Betty Evans said.

Instructors encourage the group to think on their toes and thrive in the moment, because yesterday, or even a few hours ago, might be kind of hazy.

“That playing off of each other, the laughter that comes out of that, all of that’s good for the brain,” said Pam Nolte, a teaching artist with Taproot Theater.

Source: Improv class helps dementia patients overcome memory loss