A festive, memorable and spirited Patriotic themed Music Wellness program stimulated and energized the Early Alzheimer’s Support and Education (EASE) participants. Just in time for Memorial Day, this session allowed these wonderful individuals to experience joy, happiness and laughter as we reflected on the sacrifices service member make for our freedom.
Our program began with a patriotic wellness deep breathing exercise to instrumental music. We transitioned into a RED, WHITE and BLUE Conga Drum Shaker activity … each participant shook and stated their name with their drums.
We then discussed various ways Memorial Day is celebrated (and pointed out items in the room) that reflected their comments (flags, Red, White, Blue, picnics, parades, music, etc). Then we discussed and illustrated the motion of how flags move in the wind. This allowed for a nice transition into a group “WAVING” movement teamwork activity with very large RED, WHITE and BLUE scarves. A recording of the song “Wave On, Old Glory” by Michael Peterson was used to facilitate the motions by the group.
Then the individuals were separated in to teams (“Old Glory” and “Anchors”) and the Patriotic Music Jeopardy sing along game was played and enjoyed. Thank you Rachelle Norman for sharing this wonderful and creative sing along game idea on your blog post! There were very sharp team members … competition was fierce!
Then the Tone Chimes were introduced, we closed with the song “Navy Hymn, Eternal Father.” The participants were so talented, they were able play the tone chime while singing! WOW
We closed to a relaxing deep breathing activity to “America the Beautiful” by Jim Brickman on Piano. Reflective comments included: Absolutely marvelous, Inspired, Joyful, Energized, Loved the EXERCISE, SO Awesome, Festive, Grateful” #luvservingwithmusic
I was so honored to have the assistance of Mr. Charles Arado, Korean War Veteran, my dearest friend and Honor Vet, and Michelle Reiss, ODU Music Graduate! Thank you for helping me bring joy and happiness!!
