Music last night at the Alzheimer's unit

dreadnut

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So we're taking the summer off and we're going to pick up the schedule at the Alzheimer's facilities again in September. Last night was our last outing of the season. I do this 2-3 times a week. (Eldermusic, Inc. "restoring joy and hope through live music")

Last night, one of our regulars at this particular location got up and danced through a whole song that we played and sang. This particular woman is in the advanced stages of dementia; she normally sits with her chin on her chest, expressionless. She never actually sings along; I think she is incapable of verbal communication at this point.

We did the song "King Of Kings And Lord Of Lords" which has a nice strong downbeat in Em and B7, and I increase the tempo each time, 3 times total. Old gal got up and started doing the two-step, lol, and she kept up with every tempo change. Not only that, she had a big smile on her face the whole time. Even her regular caretakers were amazed; smiling and dancing aren't typically in her repertoire.

What a great way to end the season! That was like shooting a "hole in one" at the golf course.
 
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Antney

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I am touched by this...my mom is 96 1/2 and we just had to move her into a long term care facility (nursing home if you will). There are all levels of dementia and Alzheimer's patients present on her floor. It can be a tough gig on any given day. Music is universal. Let's hope none of us lose the ability to take enjoyment and life whenever we're in its presence
 

steve488

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Music touches the heart. I would say you provided that lady a gift beyond measure. Bless you sir for all that you are doing.
 

adorshki

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Just remembered that's also exactly why I started using that Rachmaninoff quote in my sig:
"Time may change the technique of music but never its mission"
 

Neal

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I take too many things for granted. My ability to make music, and enjoy the music of others, is one of those things.

I have a gig tonight, and am going to try to enjoy every single song, and not worry so much about screwing up.
 

dreadnut

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Good point, Neal. I've had to remind a few band members over the years "as soon as this ceases to be fun, I'm outta here!"
 
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