Why am I such a big fan of folk songs, especially for people living with dementia and the senior communities where they live?
There are lots of reasons why I think folk songs are important. But there is one…
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Let's have a conversation
I wish I could sit down with each of you individually and talk about the power of music in caregiving. I would make you a cup of tea and we could share experiences and learn from each other. Obviously that…
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The Magic of Music in the Chaos of Long-Term Care
guest article by Donna K. Woodward, CNA
Being a new CNA is challenging. Yes, in training I learned how to make a hospital bed with a mannequin in it. To wash my hands according to procedure. To transfer fellow…
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Has family caregiving changed your life? A Father's Day Tribute
Has family caregiving changed your life?
Caring for a loved one, no matter the reason – be it dementia or another health concern - can be all consuming and impact relationships deeply. Family dynamics often evolve. Sometimes people find…
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HELP! I'm Not a Music Therapist But I Want a Vibrant Music Program
Have you ever thought:
"I want to do music but I'm not a music therapist or a musician."
Maybe you’re a music lover but don’t feel comfortable as a music leader. Maybe you are comfortable singing…but maybe you’re…
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Can Music Make Your Aging Parents Less Cranky? You Won't Know Until You Try!
Am I a bad daughter?
My friend Melissa asks this question often.
Frankly, her mom is…well…difficult. And Melissa is often left wondering if she could “do better” so her mom wouldn’t be so…let’s just say, challenging.
Do…
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Can You Experience the Faith of Others Through Music? A Personal Story
It was the Thursday before Easter Sunday and I was with friends. My friends are the residents of Traverse Manor where I have been singing every week for over 5 years. Most are in their 80s and 90s with a…
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Shaking Up She’ll Be Coming Round the Mountain: Two Tips Guaranteed to Breathe New Life into an Old Song
Do you ever get a little bored singing the same old songs? Come on, you can admit it. But we do it anyway don’t we? We do it because we know that for people living with dementia, there is comfort…
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Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are: The Introvert’s Guide to Using Music in Dementia Care
Helen is intuitive, creative, caring, and smart. She’s the Life Enrichment Coordinator for a cluster of small memory care homes where she has just been given a beginning budget to implement a comprehensive music program. She and I begin talking…
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Red, Red, Robin, page 18: Is it ever too late for music?
Margie’s gruff and gravely voice called out from her favorite corner where she carefully perched on the seat of her walker. Stooped and bent over, her arthritic hands were no longer able to hold the songbook she knew so well…
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