Judah Ronch, Erickson School, in The Baltimore Sun

An article published April 9 in The Baltimore Sun explores how Columbia resident Shirley Johannesen Levine has entertained audiences around the country with her puppetry skills and her company Puppet Dance Productions, with a focus on her recent trip to the Ellicott City Senior Center.

Erickson School Dean Judah Ronch was interviewed for the article and said productions such as Johannesen’s not only provide entertainment for elders, but they can support wellness.

“At any age, interaction is key to a sense of engagement and meaning of life,” Ronch said. He added interactive activities such as puppet shows can promote autonomy and self-esteem. They can also help elders with dementia positively respond to an environment that isn’t overwhelming. “The more you can do for engagement, the better,” he added.

To read the full article in The Baltimore Sun, click here.

Tags: EricksonSchool