Connecting Through Music Using individualised playlists
Comments from family members of residents who experienced Connecting Through Music...
What Does Connecting Through Music Offer? Recent documentaries and research are showing the benefits of music for people living with dementia – and not just any music – individualised playlists. This program offers residents the chance to enjoy individualised music playlists on a personal music device, using either headphones or a portable speaker. At least 10 calming and 10 mood lifting songs that are personally meaningful for the resident will be made available. Residents will be regularly assisted to access their music by care and lifestyle staff. Family, friends and volunteers may also assist the resident to enjoy their music.
Who Is Eligible? BaptistCare aims to make this program available for residents: • living with dementia who have depression &/or agitated &/or withdrawn behaviours • during palliative care Other residents are able to access the program as an optional extra.
“When we were young, our lives were full of music. It’s just been wonderful.” - Angela
“Obviously the music has an enormous impact on him when it’s playing” Christina
“It’s great to see this not only on a TV show but actually being implemented and benefiting people like my mum here” – Michelle
Research shows that appropriate music: • Improves mood • Reduces agitation and aggression • Enhances interaction, cooperation and communication • Stimulates memory • Improves movement
How can I become involved? Anyone can be involved. To apply to participate in the program, please speak with your Residential Manager or Care Team Manager. To volunteer to assist with the program, please speak with the Lifestyle Coordinator. To donate to the program please contact 1300 275 227.
Some Results So Far We have seen our residents who were agitated or withdrawn: • Smiling • Clapping • Tapping feet • Dancing • Singing • Talking • Relaxing • Holding hands • Making eye contact • Asking staff for their music!! We have seen residents and families brought relaxation, comfort and joy during palliative care.
Connection
Do you want to connect with a person living with dementia? Do you want to help to improve their quality of life and wellbeing? Music can have a profound effect.
Joy
Memories
Relaxation
Movement
My Story - My Songs Try using these questions to connect with me… • What’s your favourite type of music? • Do you have a favourite singer, group or album? • What music did you like in your teens, 20s or early 30s? Where were you living at these times? • Is there a song or piece of music that always makes you feel happy? Why? • Is there a song or piece of music that makes you cry? Why? • Is there a song or piece of music that makes you want to dance? • What praise and worship or religious songs are important to you? • Were there songs that were always played at family gatherings?
For more information, please contact Marleina Fahey on:
mfahey@baptistcare.org.au baptistcare.org.au/ connectingthroughmusic
D01146-1701
02 9023 2708