Farrell Foundation receives film grant

Methods to enhance communication between persons with dementia/Alzheimer’s and their care partners are the primary focus of the Carolyn L. Farrell Foundation in Westlake. This major goal of the foundation is the focus of a recent project grant they will be receiving from the Ohio Arts Council (OAC).

With a $6,415 grant the foundation will create a film series to illustrate methods to avoid conflict and anxiety within daily living, says co-founder and board member Dr. Charlie Farrell.

“In addition to care partners the series can be used for other segments in the community such as businesses, first responders, the medical field and faith communities. An innovative process based on improv, an approach in theatre, will be addressed in the film and can make a significant improvement in care.”

Farrell Foundation Executive Director Jerry Devis says development of the project, which started after the June OAC award, will “share a different perspective on methods to interact in positive manners and are essentially beneficial to all.”

Dr. Farrell explains that the type of services and programs that the foundation provides are “important to empowering the individuals and families to live well with dementia and other brain health issues through the arts and community outreach." In addition to the film, the foundation’s primary focus includes programs in art, music, dance/movement, creative writing and exercise. Each are offered to the community at no cost at its Center for Artful Living in Westlake and other locations.

The Farrell Foundation has served hundreds of individuals with dementia and their families over the last 10 years with the focus to give meaning and support in both practical and creative ways. Participants in the programs share the positive impact that the enrichment sessions have on their ability to socialize and importantly quality of life.

In 2011, Dr. Charlie Farrell and daughter Rev. Katie Farrell Norris started the Carolyn L. Farrell Foundation for Brain Health to make arts based programming available to the community in support and honor of Carolyn Farrell, their wife and mother. The arts bring peace, enjoyment, and inspiration into lives and is an important part in increasing the quality of life for many people. The arts enrichment program provides opportunities for socialization and research has shown how beneficial this can be for individuals affected by dementia. For more information, visit farrellfoundation.org.