Diversional Therapy Activities
The wonders of Music
It is well known and research has shown that music is very successful in maintaining and/or improving the wellbeing of people with dementia, those who have had strokes and those with mental illnesses. In truth music seems to have an universal appeal to all kinds of people all over the world. Music is not only an activity worthy pursing but it is also a wonderful way to spend your leisure time.Ideally all facilities should engage the services of a qualified music therapist, who is in a position to achieve therapeutic aims. However if your facility does not have one the Diversional Therapist can provide a very stimulating music program with a little planning. Music from commercial radio stations and TV does not count because they are usually not concerned with the wellbeing of their audience and the advertisements between songs are often a few decibels louder and unsuitable to people with dementia and/or suffering from any other neurological illnesses.
There are various ways the Diversional Therapist can set up a quality music program. A regular ‘Sing-along’ session with a pianist or a suitable CD with music from the era of clients can be a good start. Some planning is desirable so the sessions are not boring. For instance the use o:
- percussion instruments,
- clapping,
- foot tapping,
- musical quizzes,
- musical bingo and
- requesting favourite songs should alternate from week to week to make it interesting.
The purchase of an old fashion turn table can be very worthwhile, you can get them for a song in op shops or you may appeal for a donation among the staff and relatives of your facility. The LPs are also very cheap (garage sales sometimes give them away) and often in good condition in places like the Salvation Army depot or St Vincent de Paul shops.
The Diversional Therapist should also incorporate professional musicians at least once a month with a concert. In fact they should have more than one concert a month (budget allowing). Choose professionals who are enthusiastic with their work. There are some really good people around, the types who make an effort to encourage residents to dance and engage in participation.
One to One sessions or small group singing sessions should also be part of the Music Program’s planning. There are various factors limiting the clients’ awareness such as visual deficit, deafness, cognitive losses and neurological losses. It should be noted that even if a person cannot speak, she/he may be able to sing. For those who cannot speak the aim should be emotional engagement evidenced by a noticeable state of alertness, smiles, grimaces, hand clapping. These sessions should have one staff or volunteer with a musical instrument, guitar or piano accordion or other instrument to lead the session. If none is available write a ‘Position Description’ and see ‘Volunteer Program’ for ideas on how to recruit a volunteer. (See ‘how to’ on ‘Activities” for ideas on these sessions).
Another good idea to include in the Music Program is a one monthly session of Wheelchair Dance. You will need other health care staff to contribute with some of their time. One type of music that goes well with this activity is melodic ballads from country music. The choreography is as in ‘line dance’, and it is important that they practice before attempting it. The result is that staff dances pushing the wheelchair and clients sitting down are encouraged to express themselves in any way they choose. From my own experience this is a very worthwhile and fun activity.
© Copyright Solange Kindermann 2007
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