Music & Memory started with the understanding that music is deeply rooted in our conscious and unconscious brains. It becomes even more important if the functioning of the brain is deteriorating, as occurs in dementia and other types of cognitive and physical loss. Music can awaken the brain and with it, the memories that are associated with familiar songs.
The Music & Memory program helps people who suffer from a wide range of cognitive and physical challenges to find renewed meaning and connection in their lives through the gift of personalized music. The approach is simple and effective: Music playlists – containing the beloved songs from a person’s formative years – tap deep memories long attached to the brain and can bring listeners back to life, enabling them to feel like themselves again, to converse, socialize, and stay present.
Music & Memory has been a part of The Cedars since 2014, when our Activity Professionals were certified to lead the program and use it to help support our residents to help them feel connected not only to their past but keep them connected with the present. This past month, with our newest building, Sam L. Cohen fully opened; the program is being integrated to our new Activity team for use in their respective communities. Nick Viti, MOTR/L, CDP, PAC Certified Trainer was certified by Music & Memory and has seen first-hand the benefits of using the program. Once we know what our residents enjoy musically, with the aid of a questionnaire or simply being close to the resident, headphones (or a small speaker if headphones may be an irritant) are given to the resident as to not tether them to a single space.
We happily continue our partnership with the Music & Memory Program to enrich the lives of our residents at The Cedars through music.
Visit their website: Music & Memory (musicandmemory.org)