Royal Oak Seniors Connect With Art At DIA

Seniors from Royal Oak’s Leo Mahany/Harold Meininger Senior Community Center visited the Detroit Institute of Arts last week for “Thursdays at the Museum,” which included a lecture by Curator Nancy Barr.

“The DIA provides one-of-a-kind experiences to seniors in our community, giving them the opportunity to enjoy culture and history in a way you can’t find in books, on TV or online,” said Dave Woodward, chairman of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. “The DIA is a cultural gem in Metro Detroit with one of the largest art collections in the country.”

“Thursdays at the Museum” offers special programming – including films, lectures, art-making and tours – for adults age 55 and older. The program is followed by a complimentary coffee and cookie reception.

“Our seniors always enjoy their visits to the DIA because the tours provide opportunities for them to stay active, which improves their physical health,” said Paige Gembarski, coordinator of senior services. “The DIA tours also help prevent loneliness because our seniors always seem to make new friendships along the way.”

The program is funded by the tri-county millage, which was passed in 2012 and provides free admission to residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties and free bus transportation for any tri-county group of 25 or more.

In 2017, more than 5,000 seniors participated in the program.

“The DIA’s ‘Thursdays at the Museum’ highlights art, culture and history for seniors across Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties,” said Salvador Salort-Pons, DIA director. “We’re thankful our community has supported the DIA in providing these dynamic and engaging programs to residents at no cost.”

To schedule a group tour or field trip, contact the DIA at 313-833-7981.

Image via Detroit Institute of Arts