Alzheimer Society of Toronto Launches Music and Memory: iPod Project

Based on the evidence of the beneficial effects of music and stimulation on people with dementia, the Alzheimer Society of Toronto has launched a new program – Music and Memory: iPod Project – that uses iPods to bring personalized music to people needing dementia care.

As Cathy Barrick, CEO, Alzheimer Society of Toronto says, “When you are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, it can be a tremendous challenge to communicate or find ways to help him or her rediscover pleasure in the world. This program is a big win – people with dementia are stimulated, engaged, more alert for longer periods of time and want to share the music, creating a real spike in social interaction.”

The Music and Memory: iPod Project is part of the Society’s Creative Arts Therapy. It is provided at no cost to families with either the caregiver or care recipient residing in Toronto, and willing to accept a call from an Alzheimer Society of Toronto counsellor.

Inspired by Michael Rossato-Bennett’s documentary, Alive Inside (www.ximotionmedia.com); generous financial support from the George C. Hunt Family Foundation; and guidance from Linsey Norton of the Alzheimer's Association of Central and Western Kansas, as well as Dan Cohen of the non-profit organization, Music and Memory; the Alzheimer Society of Toronto is now launching the Music and Memory: iPod Project.

Alzheimer Society of Toronto’s promise to the over 42,000 people in Toronto living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias – as well as their families and caregivers – is: We’re here for you… every step of the way. The Society keeps that promise by providing free counselling, support groups, education, resource materials and as dementia-care training for health-care providers.

For more information, contact:

Alzheimer Society of Toronto
20 Eglinton Avenue West, 16th Floor
Toronto, Ontario M4R 1K8

Have you or your loved one tried music therapy?  Share your thoughts in the Comments section below.

Related Resources:

Comfort Life eBook - Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Specialized Alzheimer Care

Easing the Pain of Alzheimer's