This summer, Heart for Music is hitting all the right notes as it expands into Ontario! We've already reached over 14 care homes, and we're just getting started. Our mission? To bring joy, comfort, and a sense of connection to elders through the power of music. Thanks to the generous support of our supporters we are providing Tablets, listening devices (e.g. Headphones and Bluetooth Speakers), as well as access to Music Accounts. This allows care home staff and recreational therapists to collaborate with residents and their families, crafting personalized playlists that make every day a little brighter.
The Growing Need for Music in Long Term Care Across Ontario
Did you know that dementia cases in Ontario have surged by 48% since 2010? In fact, Ontario’s Ministry of Long Term Care projects that the number of people living with dementia in Ontario will reach over 430,000 by 2038. Many of these individuals reside in long-term care facilities, where they often experience a lack of familiarity due to being away from home. Music has the power to bridge this gap. For individuals with dementia, music can unlock memories, lift spirits, and calm anxieties. Personalized playlists, filled with songs that hold special meaning, can make care homes feel a little more like home. These playlists help residents connect with their past and their loved ones, creating moments of joy and recognition. By providing a sense of ease and familiarity, music allows residents to experience the feelings of home, even within the care facility.
Creating Connections
Our program goes beyond just providing access to music. It brings people together. Care home staff, recreational therapists, residents, and their families work hand-in-hand to create meaningful, personalized musical experiences. This collaboration not only enhances the quality of care but also strengthens the bonds between residents and their loved ones.
Testimonials from Our Newest Ontario Locations
As Heart for Music expands into Ontario, we're thrilled to share the positive impact the program is already having in care homes across the province. The voices of those directly involved, from staff to residents, highlight the profound difference that access to music can make in daily life. These testimonials reflect how the program enhances emotional well-being, fosters social connections, and brings joy to residents. Below, we hear from Pal Debasish, the Activations and Programs Manager at Cardinal Ambrozic Houses of Providence, who shares his plans for implementing the Heart For Music Program.
"We will use tablets to play music from YouTube on the Bluetooth speakers for our residents in 1:1 and group settings. Music enhances emotional well-being and is an amazing way for reminiscing. Residents will be able to enjoy any of their favorite music either in their room or with their fellow residents in a group. When any resident does not want to come out of their room, we will have the option and resources to bring music to their room.” |
-Pal Debasish, Activations and Programs Manager, Cardinal Ambrozic Houses of Providence |
Rasheeda Headley, the Programs and Services Manager at Copernicus Lodge, one of our newest locations, is also thrilled to be working with us. She is featured in this video where she highlights her hopes for the positive impact of the Heart for Music program on their residents.
Join the Movement
We're thrilled to be expanding Heart for Music across Ontario, but we can't do it alone. We need your help to reach more care homes and touch more lives. Your support can make a world of difference, bringing the healing power of music to those who need it most.
Want to get involved? Visit our website at https://www.heartformusicbc.com/get-involved to learn how you can donate or volunteer. Let's spread the joy of music to every corner of Ontario, one melody at a time. Together, we can make a harmonious impact on the lives of our elders.
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