Recognising that music provides meaning, purpose and connection, Brightwater will soon implement a music and wellbeing program, to be known as The Music Pharmacy, for its residential aged care and community clients.
The goal of the program is to provide our residential aged care and Brightwater At Home clients, their families and staff with music and the knowledge to use it as a tool to support health and wellbeing.
"I think music - or groove - is in everyone’s heart, mind and body," said program coordinator Hayley Antipas, a musician with experience working in the aged care and disability sectors.
"Music encourages communication between individuals, family and staff and facilitates communication among people in group settings. The benefits of music to physical and mental health is attracting media attention around the world," she said.
"Music can support cultural and personal connections, reduce isolation and facilitate social interactions. It encourages verbal communication, improves alertness and stimulates memories. Music can also reduce feelings of pain and distress and improve cognition."
"For people living with dementia, music can help restore their sense of identity and enhance their quality of life."
"There is an ever-increasing amount of research that emphasises the wellbeing benefits of music, including for people with advanced dementia. Our program’s creative approach is grounded in this research and we will seek to collaborate with experts in the field.
"The program will use music in different ways. For people living at home, the music program can aid independence and provide opportunities for social interaction and local community involvement through group music making," said Hayley.
Training for Brightwater’s Music and Wellbeing program will be provided in September and the program will be rolled out in October.
If you are interested in finding out more or participating in our music activities please email Hayley at [email protected].
Hayley studied classical music at the University of WA, majoring in flute performance. She has taught flute and performed with various orchestras and ensembles. Hayley is currently taking guitar and singing lessons to expand her instrumental repertoire, and is looking forward to sharing per passion for music with our clients. Bravo!
Photo: Program Coordinator Hayley Antipas (with flute) and Dementia and Wellbeing Coordinator Wendy Hudson among some of the instruments to be used in the music program.
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