Finding the right memory support household for a loved one is an emotional and often overwhelming task. When it came time to find a suitable community for my mom, who has some memory loss, we toured several facilities, each claiming to offer the best care. However, it soon became clear that not all memory support communities are created equal. During our search, we discovered Episcopal Church Home and its holistic approach to care, which set them apart from the rest.

Why Episcopal Church Home Stood Out

“We had friends who recommended Episcopal Church Home, and we felt a sense of calm and reassurance when we visited,” shared Debbie Cahill, daughter of Debbie Cecil.  The Household Coordinator, Bryan Berman, often shares the unique memory support approach with families. Unlike other facilities, Episcopal Church Home goes beyond just physical care; they integrate therapies that focus on mental well-being. This holistic approach resonates with families wanting a nurturing environment that would care for one’s body, stimulate the mind, and uplift the spirit.

The Role of Therapy in Dementia Care

While there is still no cure for dementia, various therapeutic interventions have shown promise in improving the quality of life for those affected. At Episcopal Church Home, two key therapies—Health Rhythms and Java Music—are being incorporated into the residents' routine schedules. These therapies aim to engage the mind, evoke memories, and create moments of joy and connection.

According to the world-renowned Rebecca Center for Music Therapy in New York, the use of music therapy helps stimulate communication and memory skills. Its founder, John Carpenter, a licensed, board-certified music therapist, believes that listening to live music and being involved in live music-making experiences empowers clients to emerge from the isolation imposed by Alzheimer's disease and dementia.  Carpenter says, "Music is used to maintain or increase levels of physical, mental, social, and emotional functioning.”  Music used as a sensory and intellectual stimulation can help maintain quality of life or even improve it.

Health Rhythms Therapy

Health Rhythms is a research-based group drumming protocol that has been found to reduce stress, improve mood, and foster social connections. It's more than just a music session; it's a therapeutic practice that uses rhythm to promote mental and physical well-being.

When residents first participate in a Health Rhythms session, they are often initially hesitant. However, as the sessions progress, something remarkable can happen. Residents who have been quiet, started humming along to the rhythms. Their voices grow stronger with each beat, and by the end of the session, many have a smile on their face. Bryan Berman, Household Coordinator at Episcopal Church Home, shared, “It was a moment I will not soon forget.” Over time, we have noticed that these sessions positively affect our residents’ mood and cognitive abilities, which has led to residents often becoming more engaged in conversations.

Java Music Therapy

Java Music is the second innovative therapy being offered this fall at Episcopal Church Home. This program uses familiar music to stimulate the brain and evoke memories. Music has a unique ability to reach parts of the brain that other forms of communication cannot, making it a powerful tool in dementia care.

Java Music therapy uses the power of familiar melodies to create meaningful connections and stimulate cognitive function in residents. =This approach involves playing songs that hold personal significance for individuals, tapping into their memories and emotions. Research suggests that familiar music can activate areas of the brain associated with memory and emotion, which is particularly beneficial for those living with dementia.

During a typical session, trained music facilitators curate playlists based on residents' musical preferences and past experiences. Participants are encouraged to sing along, share stories associated with the songs, and even engage in light movement. These interactions not only promote emotional well-being but also enhance social engagement among participants. Many residents report feelings of joy and nostalgia during and after the sessions, making Java Music a vital part of their routine at Episcopal Church Home care model.

Megan Bradford, Vice President of Middle Market and Ministry, oversees the organization’s memory support suite of services offered to residents.  She shares, “The team members are excited to build on Health Rhythms and offer another type of music therapy.”  Megan knows firsthand the benefits of Java Music, having the privilege of leading sessions in some of Episcopal Retirement Services’ other communities.  “Music can spark memories for many, and it is always fun to see where the conversation will take the group.”

Access to Assistance: Communities like Lyndon House at ECH provide help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation. With these tasks taken care of by the team at the Lyndon House, residents can save energy for more enjoyable activities. For instance, instead of planning, shopping, cooking, and cleaning up meals, residents enjoy great food and the company of their neighbors.

How does music therapy help?

One primary reason music is so helpful is its ability to evoke memories and emotions. Familiar melodies can trigger reminiscence, allowing individuals to reconnect with their past experiences and relationships, even when verbal communication may be challenging.

Moreover, music stimulates brain activity by engaging multiple regions, promoting cognitive function and emotional expression. Participating in music-based activities can also foster community and companionship among those affected, reducing feelings of isolation. Ultimately, incorporating music into care practices not only enriches the lives of individuals with cognitive loss but also supports their families in maintaining connections and shared experiences.

The Impact of These Therapies on Mom's Life

“Episcopal Church Home provides the care that my sister and I wish we could give Mom at home,” shared Debbie Cahill, daughter of Debbie Cecil. Combining Health Rhythms and Java Music has created a therapeutic environment that brings the residents joy. Residents become more socially active, partaking in group activities, and forming connections with other residents and team members.

Why Memory Support Therapies Matter

For families and caregivers of dementia patients, memory support therapies like Health Rhythms and Java Music offer a beacon of hope. These therapies do more than provide entertainment; they create meaningful experiences that can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia. They offer a way to connect with loved ones, even when words fail.

Benefits of Memory Support Therapies

Improved Mood: Engaging in music and rhythm activities can elevate mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Enhanced Cognitive Abilities: Music therapies stimulate the brain, helping to maintain cognitive functions and memory recall.

Social Interaction:  Group sessions foster social connections, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Physical Benefits:  Participating in rhythmic activities can also improve physical coordination and motor skills.

Finding the right memory support community for a loved one with dementia can be a challenging and emotional journey. Episcopal Church Home provides a holistic approach to care and services, including innovative therapies like Health Rhythms and Java Music, which will be offered in the fall. We’ve seen how music therapy sessions give families precious moments to remember and cherish.

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If you are searching for a memory support community that goes beyond traditional care, consider contacting Episcopal Church Home. For information about the continuum of care at Episcopal Church Home, contact Elizabeth Pace at (502) 736-8043, email her at epace@erslife.org, or visit our website by clicking the button below.