Making music for and with those afflicted with dementia or Alzheimer’s
Songs by Heart is an engagement-centered program developed for Memory Care Communities where a professional level singer leads an interactive sing-along. The singers use therapeutic techniques such as mirroring, verbal and gestural promptings, making direct eye contact, and holding hands with residents throughout the program. Singers encourage residents to join in the singing, clapping, and dancing, as well as engage in conversations centered around the musical selections.
Interested in Songs by Heart?
For inquiries and scheduling, please contact Opera Saratoga
Email: info@operasaratoga.org
With generous support from: Deborah and Dexter Senft, Virtuoso Advising for
Artists, and Virtuoso Asset Management
impact
stress reduction
Music-evoked emotions and memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s patients, and listening to familiar songs can temporarily reduce anxiety, enhance self-consciousness and identity, and improve cognitive performance in verbal and autobiographical memory.
improving self-confidence
“Songs by Heart allows residents to feel successful at a time in their lives when feeling successful is rare.”
-VP of Continuous Quality Improvement
Presbyterian Homes, IL
SOCIAL INTERACTION
Songs by Heart is not just a music program, it is an event that engages people at various cognitive levels and provides an environment that illuminates peace and happiness and contentment.”