Music Therapy is Transforming Residents' Lives
When we applied for funding to Felician Services, Inc. and the West Foundation to support one of our newest and most innovative programs, music therapy, we were doubly blessed by their matching gifts. More than 80 residents have been served.
Music therapy is an accredited program directed by a board certified music therapist who uses music as an effective means of therapy for our residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s. The effects on our residents have been amazing. One hundred percent of the residents engaged in music therapy have shown improvements in their affect, demeanor, behavior, eating, and engagement with staff and families!
As the program developed, so did the demand for services. We applied for and received additional funding to further support our residents, those on hospice and palliative care. COVID required us to pause the program temporarily. Last year Chaplain Carla Schommer sought out a board certified music therapist from Music Speaks, LLC. who could virtually “treat” our residents.
Tracy Reif, along with Marcia Baeten, have developed a patient centered program that has grown the program nearly 50% in the last two years. An adult child was moved deeply by what she personally witnessed during therapy. “Mom is a new person since Marcia and Tracy have begun working with her. Before she began music therapy, she was depressed, quiet, and truthfully it felt like she gave up on living. It was hard for our family to spend time with her.”
Tracy Reif said, “Felician Village is the epitome of an environment which uses music therapy to its fullest. The behavioral and physical changes we see in the residents at Felician Village are exciting. Marcia’s dedicated gentle and encouraging spirit is bringing out the best in your residents.”
Marcia has countless stories to share about her experiences with “Dorothy” and other residents. She commented that when she meets “Dorothy” in her room for therapy, she literally lights up.”