FY25-WAC-Impact-Report-FINAL - Report - Page 10
HOW THE ARTS CAN ...
Repair the Degenerating Brain
Access to music and visual arts can support and stimulate the aging or degenerating brain by engaging multiple
neural networks at once—those involved in emotion, memory, motor coordination, and sensory processing. Listening
to music can activate pathways linked to reward and autobiographical memory, sometimes helping people reconnect
with experiences or feelings that remain accessible even when other cognitive functions decline. Creating or observing
visual art encourages attention, problem-solving, and fine-motor planning, all of which promote neuroplasticity—
the brain’s ability to form new connections. That’s why, together with our Art Partners, the Woodruff Arts Center is
honored to offer meaningful programming to help maintain cognitive engagement, reduce stress, elevate mood, and
improve quality of life, effectively supporting brain function and resilience as it changes.
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Sundowning at the Symphony
Monthly Art Conversations
Music often reaches parts of our brains that words
cannot. Through a partnership with Alzheimer’s
Foundation of America and the Goizueta Brain Health
Institute, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
welcomes those living with Alzheimer’s disease and
their caregivers to experience ASO matinees on
Sundays in preparation for the early evenings when
“sundowning,” or increased agitation and confusion,
occurs. Following the performance, Performance
Hypothesis surveys their care partners to understand
if they saw a reduction in agitation, anxiety, and
stress.
The High’s Musing Together monthly art-conversation
program is designed for individuals with early-stage
Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia and
their care partners. High staff facilitate lively
conversations focusing on three to four artworks on
view, allowing participants to look closely and share
their observations, ideas, and opinions; learn about
the artwork; and connect with others in a supportive
environment.
