Satellite Radio
Music is a wonderful therapeutic tool. Many of our memories are tied to music that we heard while growing up or during a specific event. Imagine Christmas without the carols, road trips in the car without sing alongs, or prom without those sappy love songs!
Satellite radio offers a wide range of options for people living in a nursing home. Activity programs can be designed and complimented with the many different types of music programs played throughout the day. Options on satellite radio range from Baroque Period Classical, Rock-n-Roll, Gospel and Latin Funk to Country Gold.
For example jazz or upbeat 50’s music could be played in the morning during an exercise group. A sensory group that needs soft music could be paired with the opera station or nature sounds. I once came across a polka channel and used it during a German Fest. Caregivers were able to help many residents do the polka. Some of the people said they hadn’t had that much fun in years!
Many activity programs use music from the 1920-40’s. It is always important to remember that residents who are in the mid-stage of Alzheimer’s believe that they are 40 years younger than they actually are. Today, when preparing music that would be familiar, program directors should consider music from 1968. That year in music there were many popular hits which are now considered classics. For example:
Louis Armstrong: What a Wonderful World
Otis Redding: Sitting on the Dock of the Bay
Johnny Cash: Folsom Prison Blues
Simon and Garfunkel: Mrs. Robinson
The Beatles: Hey, Jude
The Who: The Magic Bus
People with dementia will light up when they hear a favorite song. It is a great way to start reminiscing about school, young love, work, or vacations. Don’t be afraid to use the music that was popular 40 years ago. Chances are good that this music will be associated with many of their memories.
© 2008 Alzheimer’s Care Group