A lively, spirited and energetic Summer Celebration themed Music Wellness program stimulated and energized the Early Alzheimer’s Support and Education (EASE) participants and visitors. During the middle of the summer heat, this session allowed these wonderful individuals to experience joy, happiness and laughter through engaging and empowering music making! We were honored to have Lisa DeMascio, owner of Out and About LLC, with her grandson and several veterans and Charles Arado, a Korean War Honor Flight Veteran.
We began with a wellness deep breathing exercise to instrumental music. We transitioned into a welcome song with sand blocks to the tune “My Bonny Lies over Ocean.”
Then the drums were introduced … the participants shared different tones, volume levels, lively rhythms, staring and stopping together. What energy the group displayed with the ocean drums and bells!
We then discussed why celebrations are held and occasions to celebrate … responses included: “to be happy, share the moment with loved ones, and to celebrate birthdays!” Their responses were used to complete the song “On our Birthday, our Happy Birthday, we like to eat birthday cake” to the tune “When the Lions Sleeps Tonight.”
Then we held and moved a large bright and colorful stretchy band as a group for large gross motor movement, exercise and tactile experiences with upbeat summertime music. We closed the rhythm portion with a relaxing deep breathing activity to an instrumental “Summer’s Child” song on the Piano. Lastly we enjoyed cake and ice cream to celebrate the summer and birthdays throughout the year! Reflective comments included: “Absolutely marvelous, Joyful, Energized, Loved the EXERCISE, SO Awesome, Happy”
#luvservingwithmusic Music For Wellness Alzheimer’s Association – Southeastern Virginia Chapter
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