Published: June 05, 2009 10:43 pm         

Bring a teddy bear to an Alzheimer’s patient

TERRE HAUTE — With Alzheimer’s disease, a person can lose their intellectual, social and emotional abilities over time. Research has found that dolls and teddy bears can help people with Alzheimer’s disease interact and communicate with others. Teddy bears have been known to stimulate memories and improve communications with others and overall improves the quality of life for the Alzheimer patient and their families.

The Teddy Bear Picnic was created to provide the opportunity for our community to be heroes and enhance the quality of life for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease.

The general public is invited to a picnic complete with refreshments from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday at the following locations:

n Southwood Health and Rehabilitation, 2222 Margaret Ave.

n Terre Haute Nursing and Rehabilitation, 830 S. Sixth St.

n Wyndmoor Retirement, 1465 E. Crossing Blvd.

n Bethesda Gardens, 1450 E. Crossing Blvd.

n Cobblestone Crossing Health Campus, 1850 E. Howard Wayne Drive

n McMillan Adult Day Service, 486 First Ave.

n Royal Oaks Health and Rehabilitation, 3500 Maple Ave.

n Vermillion Convalescent Center, 1705 S. Main St., Clinton

It is requested visitors bring a teddy bear as a gift for an Alzheimer’s patient.

Come bring something clients can remember from their childhood, a teddy bear they can love and hug.

Businesses may also donate teddy bears on behalf of their organization. Bears can be dropped off at participating facilities, or at the Senior Education Ministries office at 7 S. Sixth St., Suite 212.