Applegate Elder Law and the Great American Songbook Foundation at the Center for the Performing Arts have announced a sponsorship agreement for Perfect Harmony, a music therapy program for people with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases.
The initiative, which is free and open to the public, conducts regularly scheduled group programs for early-stage Alzheimer’s individuals and their caregivers at the Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green, Carmel. Each group visit consists of an overview of Songbook-themed gallery exhibits, sing-alongs with accompanist, discussion of familiar songs from the Great American Songbook, rhythm and movement activities, special song requests, and more.
“The positive power of music cannot be denied,” stated Chris Lewis, Executive Director of the Songbook Foundation. “Research now proves what many of us intuitively knew: that music provides cognitive, emotional and social benefits. It can enliven the brain and bring joy to people of all abilities, including those with memory challenges. It is amazing to see how songs can spark very specific memories and stories from our Perfect Harmony participants. To sing together, and to share those moments with our guests, is a very special experience for everyone involved.”
“Involvement with the Perfect Harmony program is indeed a perfect complement to what we do at Applegate Elder Law,” stated Carol Applegate, BSN, MSEd, MSN, JD, founder of the Carmel-based firm. “We strive to assist our clients, their families and their caregivers – people who deal daily with myriad aging issues – in any number of ways. Helping to present this fantastic and important music program associated with the Great American Songbook simply is one more facet we can offer.”
Applegate noted that music always has played an important role in her life. “I grew up in a family environment in which music was thoroughly and frequently enjoyed,” she said. “My mom played piano and organ, and even now, at age 85, music continues to be a lifeline for her. She’ll visit my home and head directly to the piano, where she entertains us with so many of the old, familiar and beloved songs. The music provides a link from what was, to what is.”
The Great American Songbook Foundation offers regular Perfect Harmony sessions for individuals, couples and caregivers on the second Wednesday of each month, with upcoming sessions on June 14 and July 12. To register, contact the Alzheimer’s Association at (317) 587-2217.
The Foundation also offers sessions by appointment for retirement communities and other groups. For more information, contact Cathy Burton, director of programs, at (317) 844-9454 [email protected]. Sessions take place in the Foundation’s Songbook Exhibit Gallery at the Palladium, One Center Green.
