My mission with seniors started when an avocation for singing turned into an advocacy for older adults. I still perform in facilities and use songs in my keynotes. I know firsthand the value of music therapy on dementia and Alzheimer's patients.
This NYT article validates it.
When looking at a care facility take time to participate and evaluate the activity programs. There are some facilities that still meet the stereotype of plopping people by a television and leaving them there. Then there are the progressive ones. Those that use progressive methods like intergenerational programming and music therapy are able to unlock something inside our elders and even halt some of the steady progress these conditions inflict on people.
2 comments:
Anthony: Have you heard of the Sparks of Life program, started in Australia? It uses music therapy, along with leaders trained as facilitators rather than, er, well, activity leaders! Here is a link to a video on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZCPpMy7Jd4
It shows two people with dementia who were unresponsive prior to taking part in the program. I think you'll like this.
Thanks Laura. I will take a look. Anthony
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