Benefit play for Joplin Little Theatre, Area Agency on Aging topic for Newsmakers

(From KGCS)

Isolation and loneliness are linked to cognitive decline according to studies cited by the Area Agency on Aging Region X serving the Joplin area. There are six million people struggling with dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease today, but that number is expected to climb to 14 million by the year 2050. Living with memory loss can be frustrating for not only the patient but their caregivers as well. 

The subject is the focus of a one-night-only play performance that will benefit both Joplin Little Theatre and the Area Agency on Aging Region X, and is examined in this week’s Newsmakers program.

The play is Breadcrumbs by Jennifer Haley and is presented through an arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. on October 5 at the Harry M. Cornell Arts and Entertainment Complex. 

It is the story of Alida, a writer who is diagnosed with dementia and must depend upon a trouble young caretaker to complete her autobiography. Diane Martinous, Alida, discusses the play and how the production will serve as a fundraiser for Joplin Little Theatre and the Area Agency on Aging Region X.

Jennifer Shotwell, Executive Director of Area Agency on Aging Region X, explains programs that agency has to support those dealing with dementia, from personal or shopping services to home delivered meals. A video piece includes comments from senior center participants about the importance of socialization there.

Newsmakers is airing nightly at 5 and 9 p.m. the week of September 24 on KGCS-TV and will be broadcast at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, September 30, on KOAM-TV. It is also posted on the station’s YouTube channel: KGCS - Missouri Southern State University.

KGCS programming can be seen on channel 21 and is also available on regional cable television systems such as Sparklight, Mediacom and Suddenlink Communications. The station operates as a service of the Department of Communications at Missouri Southern State University.