Groundbreakers: Bridging Memory through Music™

ITA Collaborative Music Program Continues its Promotion of Connection Among Dementia Residents

After 2 years of programs, months of collecting research data, and two days of training, ITA kicked off the 2018 Bridging Memory through Music™ research program on Saturday January 20, 2018 at Silverado Orchard Park Memory Care in Morton Grove, IL. We’re thrilled to be in a partnership with Northwestern University (Principal Investigator: Dr. Borna Bonakdarpour) and Silverado Care. Bridging Memory Through Music™ (formerly Music for the Mind) is a music program for adults with dementia and their family member or caregiver. It is a consecutive 12-week program that combines expertise from music therapists, professional Chicago-based musicians, and Orff music educators. The goal of the program is to enhance the quality of life of residents with Dementia by providing enriching and meaningful music experiences, social connection, opportunities for communication, and positive interactions with their family members or caregivers.

The first day of the program was a great success! The residents were singing, dancing, and playing along with the musicians during the program, and were very active in interacting with each other and their caregivers. One resident shared his musical talent with the group by playing ‘Red River Valley’ on his harmonica before the program even started! Staff at Silverado said they were honored to have us there, and thrilled to have an opportunity to be involved with the music program. In addition, we are happy to welcome veteran music therapist, Meredith Powers, as a new member of the Bridging Memory team.

Thank you to Rachele Demaster, Mary Seaberg and the staff, families, and residents at Silverado; the Bridging Memory through Music™ volunteer staff and caregivers who are taking time to assist the residents each week; the musicians; Orff educators, the research team, and the planning team.