This summer, The Kensington Redondo Beach invites you to join us for our five-part virtual workshop, “Ready. Set. Summer! Kensington Caregiver Support Series.”
This series aims to showcase the benefits of art and music therapy for seniors, especially those grappling with memory loss.
Throughout the series, we are privileged to feature a lineup of esteemed art and music therapy experts. Their knowledge, experience, and passion will serve as a guiding light for caregivers seeking to implement these therapeutic activities effectively.
The therapeutic power of music for loved ones with dementia
Be sure to RSVP to Part II of our series: “Together in Harmony: Unlocking the Power of Music for Meaningful Connections with Loved Ones with Dementia.”
This part of our series will feature Tara Jenkins, a respected board-certified music therapist, on Wednesday, July 12, at 3 p.m.
Music has been widely recognized for its therapeutic benefits for individuals with dementia. It can evoke memories, emotions and engage cognitive and sensory functions in ways other forms of communication may not.
Some of the benefits of music therapy include the following.
Unlocking memory
One of the most remarkable aspects of music is its unique capacity to unlock memories in individuals with dementia.
Even in the advanced stages of the condition, familiar songs or melodies can elicit powerful responses and help individuals connect with their past.
This memory recall can create positive conversation and foster a healthy sense of identity and self-awareness.
Emotional well-being
Listening to music can profoundly impact the emotional well-being of individuals with dementia. Music can alleviate anxiety, agitation, and depression commonly experienced by those with the condition.
Familiar music or songs with personal significance can uplift mood, promote relaxation, and provide comfort and joy during challenging moments.
Cognitive stimulation
Engaging with music can stimulate various cognitive functions in individuals with dementia.
Singing along to songs, playing musical instruments, or participating in rhythm-based activities can help maintain cognitive abilities and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Music activates different regions of the brain, fostering attention, concentration, and executive function.
Social interaction
Music serves as a powerful tool for promoting social interaction and connection.
Group music activities, such as singing in a choir or participating in music therapy sessions, create opportunities for meaningful engagement with peers, family members, and caregivers.
These activities foster a sense of belonging, reduce isolation, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals with dementia.
Improved communication
For individuals with dementia who struggle with verbal communication, music becomes a means of expression.
The music bridges communication gaps, facilitates meaningful interactions, and enhances non-verbal communication through movement or gestures.
Music provides a shared language that allows for deeper connections and understanding.
Pain management
Music therapy has shown positive effects on pain management in individuals with dementia.
Calming music or participating in music-making activities can reduce pain perception and improve overall comfort.
Music serves as a powerful distraction, promoting relaxation and easing physical discomfort.
By incorporating personalized music choices and involving trained music therapists, the therapeutic potential of music can be harnessed to its fullest extent, creating meaningful and transformative experiences for those with dementia and their caregivers.
The therapeutic benefits of art
Much like music, artistic expression allows for communication, self-discovery, and personal growth. However, its impact goes beyond these realms, particularly for the aging brain.
Creative activities can promote cognitive function, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life.
The Kensington Redondo Beach ensures our residents have a calendar full of life-enrichment activities for this very reason.
To learn more about the benefits of art for seniors, RSVP to Part III of our series, “Art for the Aging Brain with Opening Minds through Art at Scripps Gerontology Center.”
This event will be on Wednesday, July 19, at 3 p.m.
Caregiver tips for engaging seniors in art:
- Create a supportive environment
- Encourage exploration
- Adapt to individual abilities
- Foster a non-judgmental atmosphere
- Incorporate reminiscence therapy
- Engage the senses
- Encourage social interaction
- Seek professional guidance
- Be patient and flexible
- Celebrate and showcase their work
Engaging seniors in artistic activities can bring joy, stimulation, and a sense of purpose to their lives.
By incorporating art into their daily routines, caregivers can contribute to their overall well-being, strengthen their cognitive abilities, and create meaningful connections with the seniors they care for.
A community that promotes growth and healing
The Kensington Redondo Beach is an assisted living and memory care community that stands by Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own.
To ensure our residents maintain quality of life and can truly age in place, we offer:
- Around-the-clock care
- On-site nurses
- Two dedicated neighborhoods for Alzheimer’s and dementia care
- Connections: early to mid-stage memory loss
- Haven: mid to late stage
- Exquisite dining
- Life-enrichment activities
- Rehabilitation services
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Safe and secure grounds
- Support and events for caregivers
As a caregiver, your role is invaluable, and you deserve a summer filled with support, knowledge, and inspiration.
Join us for our five-part virtual workshop series and discover the tools you need to excel at caregiving.
The last two installments of our series are:
- Part IV: Mental Fitness with Braden Bishop, Caregiver Advocate & Former Major League Baseball Player
- Wednesday, August 16th at 3 pm
- Part V: Weekly Wellness Plan to Find Balance & Joy for a Busy Life with Sherri Snelling, Gerontologist
- Wednesday, August 23rd at 3 pm
Check out our blog to learn about our community, services, amenities, caregiver support and resources, and our upcoming virtual workshops. Our team is here for you and your family and can be reached at any time for questions and support.