Alive with the Sound of Music

Music therapy is a growing health care profession in which credentialed professionals use music to improve an individual's balance, mobility and communication; alleviate pain and depression; enhance memory and expression of feelings; and assist with physical rehabilitation.

Coordinated by two board-certified music therapists, the Music Therapy program offers sessions for residents of each neighborhood in the Masonic Health Care Center, as well as the assisted living area and the Adult Daily Living Center. Residents have the opportunity to participate in a Bell Choir, dances, Music and Movement, and Music and Memories groups. Music therapists also provide end-of-life music services.

Celebrating more than 10 years of providing music and motion for the residents of Masonic Village, Music Therapy adds a beat to an already extensive array of therapeutic recreation programs and recreational opportunities at Masonic Village.

According to Ann Dinsmore, Music Therapy Supervisor, "Music provides very specific therapeutic benefits for older adults, supported by growing research in the areas of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Music acts as a motivator; it stimulates and relaxes, and it triggers many memories. When other functions have failed people, music still provides an outlet for expression."