Elizabeth Gronke, BFA, MPS, ATR-BC
Creative Arts Therapist
We must continue growing evidence of the cognitive benefits of creativity paired with social engagement. The clinical value of the arts should be understood as a standard of care across the lifespan.
Current Work
Developing and leading hands-on and/or discussion-based arts engagement programs for older adults, specializing in those living with dementia, their families and professional care partners. Creating dementia-friendly video and printed media.
Personal Hero
Fred Rogers
Words of Strength
Kindness above all
Vision
It is a imperative to continue growing the body of evidence of the cognitive benefits of creativity paired with social engagement. The clinical value of the arts should be understood as a standard of care across the life-span, and accessible to all.
Strategy
Elizabeth develops arts-based social engagement programs for older adults and those living with dementia and their care partners for settings such as homes, museums, gardens and memory care residences to provide meaningful connections.
Impact
As an Atlantic Fellow, Elizabeth hopes to become a forceful and credible voice in non-clinical settings for the overall health benefits of creative engagement and to make it a standard of care, including for those with end-stage illness.
Motivation
While the number of people with a dementia diagnosis in New York State is rising, hospice and palliative care is underutilized. Elizabeth hopes to raise the standard of care for people with late and end-stage dementia by partnering with researchers.
Education & Experience
Elizabeth, Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist, has been in the field of dementia care for over 25 years. She recieved her Bachelor's of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics from California College of the Arts, then completed her Master's Degree for Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute. In 2015 she founded Silverbright Circle LLC to develop arts-based programming for older adults, individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
Videos
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Elizabeth
a NoteHave ideas for global brain health or a collaboration? I would love to hear from you. Feel free to send an introductory note.
