Nanaimo Travellers Lodge
offers a comprehensive music therapy program for both residential and
community clients. Music therapy encourages people with dementia to
socialize, express emotion and reminisce about their lives. They
achieve confidence through activities such as singing and playing
instruments, Music therapy has been shown to decrease depression while
helping people with poor verbal skills communicate their emotions and
desires. It also is a valuable tool to
assist people in palliative care.
Choir – residential and community clients make up the
20-voice choir which rehearses weekly and presents concerts every
few months. Participants not only sing but also make decisions
about the repertoire and presentation.
Java Music Club – clients from the Daybreak program
gather weekly over coffee to explore a theme through singing,
instrument playing and discussion. The music therapist uses books,
pictures, food and different smells to stimulate participation.
One-to-one sessions – using instruments, song and
counselling the music therapist helps residents deal with behaviour
issues related to dementia, such as agitation, depression, poor self
esteem and isolation.
Sing-along - the music therapist allows residents to
choose from a basket of songs. Depending which song is chosen, the
therapist will lead discussion and singing to provoke reminiscing.
Wandering Minstrel – the music therapist wanders the
halls playing songs on her guitar. Along the way she engages
residents and clients in chat and singing, making them feel
