MDC fishing event on Sept. 18 will focus on memory-loss patients Free event at MDC’s Bois D’Arc Education Pond geared for patients and their families

SPRINGFIELD – In addition to being a great way to connect with the outdoors and provide a tasty meal, fishing can also be therapeutic. The calm and comfort this activity provides can have positive mental benefits for participants and their family members.

Using fishing as a way for people living with dementia - as well as their families and caregivers - to find mental comfort is the focus of an upcoming event at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Bois D’Arc Conservation Area Education Pond in Greene County. This event, “Making Memories: Fishing and Family Day,” will be 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sept. 18 and is for people living with dementia, their caregivers, and their family members. The event is being put on by MDC and the Greater Missouri Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. People can register at: https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/178257

The “Making Memories” events is an ongoing series of activities put on by the Greater Missouri Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. The Sept. 18 event is the first time the Association has partnered with MDC in southwest Missouri for a fishing event. Research has shown that fishing can reduce anxiety, fight off depression, and improve cognitive skills, but Samantha Whittaker of the Greater Missouri Chapter said this event is about more than improving an individual’s memory and mental well-being.

“We know recent studies show that social and physical activities can help with cognition, but this event is not only focused on being active – it’s about families,” said Whittaker, who is the Association’s Program Coordinator. “This event is an opportunity for families to spend time together in the great outdoors with their loved ones who are currently battling dementia.”

All equipment will be provided for this event. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. MDC’s Bois D’Arc Education Pond is located at 4045 Highway UU in Greene County. Individuals wanting more information about this event can contact MDC Conservation Educator Lyle Whittaker at 417-895-6881, ext. 1644 or at Lyle.Whittaker@mdc.mo.gov.

People can also contact Greater Missouri Chapter Alzheimer’s Association Program Coordinator Samantha Whittaker at slwhittaker@alz.org or at 417-461-4025.

Staff at MDC facilities across the state are holding virtual and in-person programs. A listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events