|
|
|
|
Greetings!
This week begins the first in a new E-News series where I will be offering answers to some frequently asked questions. Let’s start with the basics.
Why does music improve the quality of life?
The answer is complicated and it’s simple.
The complicated part has to do with what is happening in the brain, which science suggests is literally hard wired to connect music with memories. The songs of our youth are stored away in our brain, in their own special place. And no matter what happens, hearing those songs can allow us to access memories and feelings.
The simple part has to do with the ability of music to affect how we feel. Have you ever heard a song on the radio that lifted your spirits or reminded you of someone or of something you experienced? If so, then you understand.
Singing and music can make people happy. And happiness improves the quality of everyone’s lives.
 "If music is such an important aspect of people's lives from the time they are born, why is it that it doesn't really occur to us, as a society, to provide people with music when they can no longer do what is necessary to provide it for themselves? Music has power, and we need to remember to keep everyone plugged in!"
Petr Janata, PhD
Neuroscientist Guggenheim Fellow, UC Davis, Center for Mind and Brain, Music Has PowerTM Award Winner
I play music in the background all day. Isn’t that enough?
No! Playing music in the background is fine, as long as it is music that the people enjoy and as long as you give everyone’s ears a break now and then. (There truly is such a thing as “listener fatigue”.) A music session using singing and movement allows people to connect with you and with each other. It helps create community and a sense of belonging that we all need.
Sometimes I just need a break. Can’t they just sing with a CD on their own?
Yes, you can use a CD to provide an “independent” activity for someone. IF the CD has been designed for that purpose, such as my Songs You Know By Heart. Do keep in mind that people with dementia often have a hard time getting started. This will work best if you start them out singing along and then stop back occasionally to sing a few lines, and show enthusiasm and encouragement.
Next week: More advice on how to plan a singing session for the seniors you work with.
Singing with you,
Mary Sue
PS. Feel free to send me your questions about how to use music with the seniors you serve.
|
|
|
Caring.com is one of the resources I recommend on my website. They offer a great newsletter that you can tailor to your interests. Here is a recent article they published. One I personally found very reassuring!
|
|
|
Have you ever heard the expression "If I knew you were coming I'd have baked a cake"? Take a 3 minute break and treat yourself to this fun YouTube of the popular song by the same name. Thanks to the ladies at French Manor for reminding me of this little gem. It has been added to the Young at Heart Music repertoire.
|
|
|
Share this newsletter using Facebook, Twitter or by email using the buttons below.
|
|
|
 Mary Sue Wilkinson is the founder of Singing Heart to HeartTM and the Young at Heart Music Program. She is a career educator and professional musician. And she loves to sing! Her flagship program, Young at Heart Music, is devoted to bringing the joy of music and singing to seniors with decades of life experiences and memories tied to music. Mary Sue is available as a speaker sharing her expertise about the power of music to awaken memories and bring joy. Together with Tiyi Schippers, Mary Sue also provides music experiences for young children and training for early childhood educators.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
