Creative expression flourishes in Banfield Pavilion’s recreation program

Shum Jang never considered herself to be an artist. But more than 30 paintings later, the Banfield resident has discovered a hidden talent that neither she nor her family knew existed.

“My mother’s found a new passion and I think that’s really helped her adjust to living in residential care,” said daughter Shirley Tsui, who credits the recreation program at Banfield for contributing to her mother’s on-going recovery.

According to volunteer Artist Eduarda Donovan, Mrs. Jang’s talent revealed itself at her first art session. “Since then, she has found particular enjoyment interpreting landscapes, especially mountains, rivers and the ocean,” said Donovan.

“Mrs. Jang continues to paint with dedication and passion ever since her arrival here in 2012,” added Occupational Therapist Guylaine Desharnais, who works with activity workers Melanie Allan, Sandy Gibbons, Natalie Chapman and Yee-Sin Law in Banfield’s Recreation Program.

The program is guided by the Eden Philosophy of Care that includes providing elders with meaningful activities that eliminate loneliness, helplessness and boredom which accounts for the bulk of suffering among elders.

“Our programming is centered on Eden’s core values of innovation, integrity, community, empowerment and passion,” said Desharnais.

All activities are based on residents’ interests and input, and include gardening, cooking, computer access, Tai Chi, and daytrips. Social activities such as Dim Sum lunches and pub afternoons are also popular.

For Mrs. Jang, though, it’s painting that continues to provide the most enjoyment.

“Our entire family has paintings that mom has created for us,” added daughter Shirley Tsui. “We’re all proud of the way mom has adapted to her new life and the enthusiasm she has shown for her new-found passion that helps to keep her engaged and active well into her senior years.”