Musical Bridges to Memory™ (MBM) is a one-of-a-kind, evidence-based, set of programs designed to support individuals living with memory loss and dementia, and their care partners, by restoring connection through the power of music.
Developed by the Institute for Therapy through the Arts (ITA) in partnership with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine’s Music and Medicine Program, MBM blends live music, therapeutic techniques, and caregiver education to improve communication, enhance relationships, and uplift quality of life.
Our Mission: Bridging relationships between people living dementia, their families, and the greater community we serve through live musical interactions training, and research in music-based approaches.
Program Overview
The Institute for Therapy through the Arts (ITA) created Musical Bridges to Memory™ (MBM) to strengthen relationships between people living with Dementia and their caregivers. MBM equips caregivers with practical, music‑based techniques that stimulate memory and language, promote orientation and attention, and invite safe, shared moments of connection.
How MBM Works:
- Caregiver Training: Weekly coaching in 24 evidence-informed techniques led by ITA music therapists.
- Interactive Concert: Residents and caregivers participate together with professional musicians to practice techniques in a joyful, supportive setting.
- Small-Group Reflection: Facilitated conversation to reinforce skills, share insights, and encourage continued use at home.
2023-2025 Timeline & Reach
- June – September 2023: 12-week research cohort – Chicago Methodist Senior Services (moderate to late stage)
- May – August 2024: 12-week research cohort – Silverado St. Charles (moderate to late stage)
- June – September 2024: 12-week research cohort – Presbyterian Homes Westminster Place, Evanston (moderate to late stage)
- Summer 2025: 10-week Evanston Pilot at ITA’s clinic (Mild Cognitive Impairment to Early Stage)
Total individuals living with Dementia served: 90
Additionally, ITA served more than 150 individuals living with Dementia through outpatient services and memory-friendly community programs across Chicago.
Outcomes
- Research cohorts: Caregivers reported improved relationship quality over the 12-week programs. Participants increased positive social behaviors and showed fewer anxious or agitated symptoms; caregivers reported reduced distress related to those symptoms.
- Post-intervention research results were tested up to one month after the program.
- 2025 Evanston Pilot: 50% of participants improved pre- to pos- assessment scores. Attendance remained strong despite summer timing; all but one dyad requested continuation (the exception relocated out of state).
Upcoming Cohort – Beginning January 2026!
ITA will replicate our Pilot MBM program, Healthy Aging through Music at our Evanston clinic starting January 10, 2026. This 10-week program brings families and caregivers together to support memory, connection, and well-being through music.
Each session includes live performances, small group conversations, and weekly virtual support – fostering joy, community, and meaningful connection.
Flat Fee: $1,800 for 10 weeks w/ financial aid readily available for as low as $140.
Sessions: Saturdays starting January 10th for 10 weeks from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
To register, email Allison Becker at info@itachicago.org or call 847-425-9708.