Music and Memory program uplifts residents at Harbor Healthcare
Visitors to Harbor Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Lewes may see residents singing and smiling. The skilled nursing facility is offering Music and Memory programming that allows individuals to enjoy their favorite music to encourage feelings of happiness and joy.
"Becoming a Music and Memory certified care organization has allowed us to share the powerful benefits of personalized music as part of our continuing effort to provide the highest quality of care. Music allows our residents to become more engage and less anxious, which results in increased life enjoyment," said Andrew Byrd, executive director at Harbor Healthcare.
Grounded in extensive research, Music and Memory helps people living with a broad range of cognitive and physical challenges to find renewed joy in life through musical favorites. Team members are trained to develop personalized playlists, and they are getting a hand from area teenagers. Cape Henlopen High School Honor Society students have partnered with Harbor Healthcare to download music to iPods and assist in one-on-one engagement with residents.
"Music helps to reduce depression and anxiety, and can improve quality of life for residents by tapping into deep memories. Participants are often happier, more social, and receptive to care and family visits," said Sharon Ostasewski, memory care community activity director at Harbor Healthcare.
Memory and music programs can help all seniors, but they are most beneficial for those with conditions including dementia or Alzheimer's disease; individuals who are bed-bound, on dialysis or ventilators; and seniors suffering from chronic pain or receiving hospice care.
Often, personalized music can help reduce reliance on antipsychotic, antidepressant and pain medications. Anyone at Harbor Healthcare can benefit from the power of listening to their favorite music. As they build their program, they will be able to offer it to all who are interested.
To expand the program, Harbor Healthcare is collecting new and gently used iPods which can be dropped off at the center at 301 Ocean View Blvd. in Lewes.
