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NEW YORK--([ BUSINESS WIRE ])--Alzheimeras researchers call it a powerful tool to help ward off dementia. At-risk teens use it to find meaning in the world around them. And it can offer healing to the chronically ill and veterans battling post-traumatic stress disorder. What is this magical elixir? Art.

"We are proud to sponsor this important documentary and share its powerful message that the arts are equally important to human development and keeping the mind healthy throughout oneas lifetime."

MetLife Foundation is proud to be the exclusive sponsor for Arts & the Mind; a two-part documentary will air throughout the 2012 fall season on local PBS affiliate stations. The program explores the vital role the arts play in human development throughout our lives; and shares stories and cutting edge scientific research on how music, dance, painting, poetry and theater markedly improve well-being from birth through the aging process. The documentary premieres on the Pensacola, Florida PBS station the week of September 10.

aMetLife Foundation believes that the arts play a vital role in our communities and are critical to promoting learning and understanding of the world and its diverse cultures,a said Dennis White, president and chief executive officer, MetLife Foundation. aWe are proud to sponsor this important documentary and share its powerful message that the arts are equally important to human development and keeping the mind healthy throughout oneas lifetime.a

MetLife Foundation is committed to supporting the arts, including exploring how the arts and creativity help during the aging process. Since 2009, the Foundation has provided more than $3 million to support creativity and aging programs.

Arts & the Mind showcases some of the nationas most innovative and successful arts programs and reveals the latest insights and findings from leading American neurologists, psychologists and educators. Researchers reveal the latest findings on the impact of the arts on human development; why the arts improve childrenas learning and achievement in school; and evidence to confirm how the arts keep middle-aged and older brains agile and alert.

In addition to the national television broadcasts, Arts & the Mind will include online and community outreach components. The pbs.org website will stream the programs in their entirety, and will feature program clips and accompanying educational guides for viewers so they can be shared in schools, civic organizations, arts programs, and homes nationwide.

MetLife Foundation was established in 1976 to continue MetLifeas longstanding tradition of corporate contributions and community involvement. The Foundationas commitment to building a secure future for individuals and communities worldwide is reflected in its dedication to empowering older adults, preparing young people and building livable communities. Since it was established, MetLife Foundation has provided more than $530 million in grants and $70 million in program-related investments to nonprofit organizations addressing issues that have a positive impact in their communities. For more information visit [ www.metlife.org ]