Music has been called the “soundtrack of our lives,” and that soundtrack does not go silent in our senior years. In fact, it can be more important than ever, particularly for seniors with cognitive issues.
It is why music therapy and programmatic music are instrumental to the philosophy and practice of care at St. Joseph’s Health Centre (SJHC).
SJHC runs a two-site rehabilitation hospital and two long-term care homes in Greater Sudbury. Music therapy and programmatic music are both used to improve the quality of life and health outcomes for patients and residents.
Programmatic Music includes the use of playlists, live performances and group singalongs to promote activity and a general sense of well-being.
Music Therapy is more intensive and clinical in nature. It is led by a certified professional and can include playing instruments and other forms of music making, as well as singing. Music therapy can help stimulate brain activity, which can improve cognitive function including memory recall, as well as mood, all of which are particularly important for people with such conditions as Alzheimer's and dementia.
At St. Joseph’s Villa, two one-hour sessions of Music Therapy are held each week, under the guidance of Kylie Klym, owner of Kadence Music Therapy in Greater Sudbury. Numerous musical instruments and other sound equipment are used.
“Music Therapy is a huge benefit for the residents who really enjoy the evening sessions,” explains Alisha, a Life Enrichment Assistant at St. Joseph’s Villa. “Kylie interacts with all the residents who attend and she always has a theme. Our residents really benefit from this program.”
“I love being apart of the Music Therapy Program too,” adds Deborah, Behaviour Support Clinical Assistant . The residents looked forward to it each week. Many would sing and play the instruments, and some would just listen and rock in their chairs.”
Music Therapy and Music Programmatic sessions are held in groups, with anywhere from 5 to 30 people attending at a time. More than 70 residents have participated so far.
“I love being apart of the Music Therapy Program,” says Stephanie, one of the residents of St. Joseph’s Villa. “I love sitting in the back and singing along and being able to express myself in music.”
March was Music Therapy Awareness Month, a time to recognize the profound impact music has on health and well-being. At SJHC, this impact is made possible in part through the generosity of donors. The family and friends of Bebhinn Albiani made a meaningful contribution to this effort, donating $9,000 in her honour to enhance music therapy and programmatic music programs. Their gift enabled the purchase of new instruments and audio equipment, enriching the musical experience for residents and patients.
Albiani, a former patient of St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre’s rehabilitation hospital, was an avid music lover. Thanks to this generous donation, more patients and residents can engage with music in a way that stimulates memory, lifts spirits, and fosters connection—further demonstrating how philanthropy enhances care at St. Joe’s every day.
To learn more about St. Joseph’s Health Centre, and its services, visit them online here.