Many studies have been conducted on the value of music in our lives, and each time researchers find that the benefits are numerous.
According to John Hopkins Medicine, “If you want to keep your brain engaged throughout the aging process, listening to or playing music is a great tool. It provides a total brain workout.”
This is why Alzheimer Society of BC, OneSky Community Resources, and the Penticton & District Community Arts Council have partnered with the Penticton Academy of Music & Dramatic Arts to deliver a free weekly group singalong for people living with dementia and their caregivers.
Every Thursday afternoon, a PAMDA volunteer picks up the guitar or ukulele and leads attendees through the songbook, which contains singalong favourites, such as Tennessee Waltz, King of the Road, and You Are My Sunshine.
After that, attendees socialize over refreshments provided by OneSky Community Resources.
And no one even needs to sing. Just come along and have a nice time. After all, the research also shows that simply listening to music can reduce anxiety and improve your mood.
This free event is offered every Thursday from 1:30 to 3:00pm in the Community Art Room at the Leir House Cultural Centre, 220 Manor Park Avenue, where there’s easy access and on-site parking.
To register for this week's singalong, please email Gail at gail.mansell@oneskycommunity.com.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact any of the participating organizations below.
Penticton Academy of Music & Dramatic Arts: director@pentictonacademyofmusic
Alzheimer Society of BC: mrutherford@alzheimerbc.org
OneSky Community Resources: gail.mansell@oneskycommunity.com
Penticton & District Community Arts Council: administrator@pentictonartscouncil.com