ERCC Now Offers Expressive Arts Therapy
Elkins Regional Convalescent Center is pleased to announce one of its many new services. ERCC has added Expressive Arts Therapy to the services offered to its residents.
Creative Arts Specialist Linda Zimmer has been working with the Activity Department to provide various therapeutic activities such as music, art, drama and puppetry to residents. She is assisted by her therapy dog, Toby, who is registered with Therapy Dogs International.
“The goal is interactive participation for therapeutic results,” Zimmer said. “We have the ability to engage our emotions and creativity throughout our entire life span, and there is a growing body of scientific evidence that music, art, and drama therapy can be useful with those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
“While not curative, these activities can provide comfort, stimulation and even cognitive gains. It’s a joyful and learning experience to be working with this population.”
Zimmer, a resident of Randolph County, began her puppetry career with The Lovelace Marionettes in Pittsburgh and later began creating puppets for the public television series “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood.”
Zimmer has worked extensively with children and adults by conducting numerous workshops and programs throughout the country, including the West Virginia University School of Behavioral Medicine, conducting a program focusing on the therapeutic uses of puppetry. She serves as an instructor for the Randolph County Artsbank project and works with the Blue Rock Marionette Theatre located in Mill Creek.
“She is a great addition to our team,” said Dixie Watson, Director of Nursing. “The residents really enjoy seeing her with Toby and joining in the activities. When Linda is around, people are always smiling and having a good time.”
Elkins Regional Convalescent Center (ERCC) is a 111-bed non-profit, long-term care and rehabilitation facility located in beautiful Elkins, West Virginia. ERCC is dually certified for both skilled and intermediate care residents. ERCC is committed to providing each resident with superior, personalized health care in an open and friendly setting that welcomes family participation.
