What a beautiful day in recognition for Earth Day than through stimulating, engaging and energizing “Earth Day” Theme Music Therapy sessions for older adults LIVING with dementia.
Our session began with a wellness exercise to and instrumental version of “Wind Beneath My Wings” then we greeted each other Yellow Sun Shakers (Lemon shakers) while shaking to “This Little Light of Mine” while incorporating each person’s name in the song. We then sang “You are My Sunshine.”
Next we discussed the purpose of Earth Day and ways we pay tribute for this worldwide cause in support for environmental protection. Various rhythm instruments were distributed to resemble the sounds of nature. These instruments included: rain sticks, ocean drums, bells, cymbals, wood blocks, drums, shakers, wooden frogs, and Native American Flute.
Then we modified a the song “When the Lion Sleeps Tonight” to “On Earth Day, the Beautiful Earth Day, We protect the environment by (recycling, conserving water, etc).” Then the residents tapped several patterns, emphasizing starting and stopping together. This was a very rewarding experience for the residents to start and stop together.
Then word cards were distributed to complete the lyrics for the song: “Blue Skies.” This took concentration, focus and visually reading the word while singing the song. We also shared examples of beauty in the lyrics: blues skies, spring weather, yellow sun, and blue birds.
We closed by conducting a wellness and deep breathing before enjoying the rest of the Beautiful Spring day outside. Reflective comments included: “I loved it all, wonderful, awesome, beautiful.
