Art show an awareness event for Alzheimer's disease

In recognition of National Alzheimer's Awareness Month, the Alvin A. Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center will present an art show featuring paintings by individuals experiencing the various stages of Alzheimer's disease or other memory impairment. The art will be displayed from Nov. 3 through Nov. 21 at Robb & Stucky Interiors located at 13170 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers.

This is the 12th annual Brushstrokes From The Soul event held by the Alvin A. Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center. A reception will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 11, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The public is invited to attend this reception and view the artwork on display. The reception will also provide residents of Lee County with the opportunity to meet representatives from the Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center and discuss the many services and programs available to assist individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related memory impairments and their caregivers.

The annual awareness event is being sponsored by Gulf Coast Village, the 2008 Grand Sponsor of the Alvin A. Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center. Gulf Coast Village provides assisted living and skilled nursing services for persons with memory impairment. Corporate and business sponsors who have contributed to the Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center's annual fund raising campaign will also be recognized at the art show.

"Our annual awareness event is a great opportunity to highlight the therapeutic value of creative arts programs for individuals with memory impairment," said Dotty St. Amand, executive director of the Alvin A. Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center. "Art therapy offers a way for individuals to express themselves when words are no longer there."

Alzheimer's disease affects approximately 5 million Americans and more than 22,000 Lee County residents. The artwork that will be displayed was created by individuals who receive services from area assisted living facilities, skilled nursing centers, day stay respite programs, and retirement communities. All of the artwork has been professionally matted and framed. Select pieces will be available for purchase via silent auction at the art show event. The silent auction will be held during the reception on Nov. 11. Proceeds benefit the Alvin A. Dubin Alzheimer's Resource Center.