Ronkonkoma adult-services center gets $5K grant

A Ronkonkoma-based center for adults with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia has received a $5,000 grant to enhance its music program.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America recently chose The Community Programs Center of Long Island as one of six recipients for the biannual grant given to develop or enhance programs for patients with Alzheimer’s and their families.

At The Community Programs Center, the money will be used for a music program at the agency’s Day Haven Adult Day Services, according to a press release from the AFA. The interactive and education-based program is designed for participants with limited cognitive and verbal capacity who can enjoy the sensory experience of the music.

“The Community Programs Center offers a wonderful opportunity to engage and stimulate individuals with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Eric J. Hall, AFA’s president and chief executive officer. “The value of music therapy and other recreational activities for people with this brain disorder cannot be overstated.”

The grant will allow Day Haven to buy an electronic keyboard, acoustic guitar, a stereo and music books, according to the release.

Day Haven Adult Services was established in 1984 and aims to provide services that will keep adults with Alzheimer’s and dementia in their homes as long as possible, according to the agency’s website.