‘Senior Sing-A-Long’ Will Help Improve Quality of Life For Alzheimer’s Patients

A West Michigan non-profit has received a grant to help those suffering from Alzheimer's disease.

'Senior Sing-A-Long' Will Aid Alzheimer's Patients Through Music Therapy

The Alzheimer's Foundation of America has awarded a grant to the West Michigan 'Senior Sing-A-Long' to continue their music therapy with Alzheimer's patients, as well as though suffering from dementia.

It's amazing what studies have shown about how music therapy helps patients to recall the past or even just to light up while singing their favorite songs, and this program helps bring that to local long term facilities and nursing homes.

“It's an honor to be able to encourage and enrich the lives of seniors through Music Therapy and music-based enrichment programming. Watching their faces light up as they clap and sing together, hearing them laugh and share stories when an old tune prompts memories--it's powerful.

As music pulls them from isolation...connection happens, community is felt, dignity is affirmed. And their days are better. To play a part in that is a gift, and we are incredibly grateful to  AFA for helping us continue sharing the healing power of music with so many seniors, " Jill Dover of Senior Sing-A-Long said in a press release.

Lady Gaga Keeps Connected With Tony Bennett Through His Songs

You may have seen the recent '60 Minutes' episode about the relationship between Gaga and Bennett, who suffers from Alzheimer's.

“When jazz begins,” explained Gaga in the piece, holding back tears, “this man lights up in a way that is such magic.”

Music, she explained, has the power to help and heal in the most challenging of scenarios.

For anyone whose family member is presenting with Alzheimer’s, says Gaga, “music is magic. Music is a miracle.”

That's Why Senior Sing-A-Long Is An Important Therapy For Local Seniors

Senior Sing A-Long aims to revitalize the minds and spirits of people in long-term care communities using music and other live arts with a focus on seniors and veterans living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

The music therapy program consists of small groups of seniors creating music by playing instruments to accomplish therapeutic goals. Senior Sing-A-Long also brings in musicians, dance groups and magicians to entertain participants.

The $6,000 grant will help the organization expand its Life Enrichment and Music Therapy program by increasing live entertainment performances and adding more opportunity for music therapy engagement.  The goal is to use music to unite, move, reveal, inspire and heal.  Music has been shown to improve quality of life as well as mood, cognition, and longevity for seniors.