Freemasons donate art therapy books to RMBI Care Co. residents for Dementia Action Week

According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, an estimated 944,000 people are living with dementia in the UK and this is expected to increase to over 1 million by 2030. Dementia was the leading cause of death in 2022, accounting for over 11% of deaths. However, research suggests up to 40% of dementia cases can be prevented.

To mark Dementia Action Week 2024 between 13-19 May, RMBI Care Co. has teamed up with the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) and the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) to provide art therapy books to residents in its 17 care homes for older people.

David Barton, an Essex Freemason who is behind the art therapy initiative, says:

We want to raise awareness and provide practical support for people living with dementia.

David set up ‘Get Started Art,’ a community interest company (CIC) in 2023, to provide free arts and crafts materials to groups supporting disadvantaged children and vulnerable adults, primarily within the Essex area.

Resident Rosina Kent enjoys colouring in at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Braintree, Essex.

David adds:

Art therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that involves creative pursuits. Some noticeable benefits have been stimulating memory, boosting mood and communication skills.

We hope our books will engage residents and help ease any symptoms of anxiety or stress.

With the additional support from UGLE and the MCF, over 20,000 art therapy books are being donated to care homes, hospitals and dementia charities across the UK, including RMBI Care Co. Homes.

Receiving their books, Sophie George, Activities Coordinator at Prince Edward Duke of Kent Court, in Braintree, Essex, said:

We’ve seen first-hand the positive impact art therapy can have on our residents’ health and wellbeing. Creative activities can help to calm the mind, allowing a person to focus on the present and participate fully in the task at hand.

[Summary: RMBI Care Co. has teamed up with the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) and the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) to provide art therapy books to residents in its 17 care homes for older people. This marks Dementia Action Week 2024, between 13-19 May.]