THE MAGIC OF DRUMMING AND DEMENTIA IN AUSTRALIA

DRUMMING WITH DEMENTIA-SOUND SYNERGY

Drumming for the Elderly/Dementia The development of Drumming Circles for the elderly is a new phenomenon that is being researched and developed in forward thinking Aged Care Organisations, via Sound Synergy Drumming Company. The sessions provide some major health benefits as well as providing an opportunity for fun, social interaction, improving the lives of all who participate. Nursing homes have reported seeing higher energy levels, behavioral improvements and a boost in morale since drumming became part of the routine. Music therapists have long used music to connect people, especially the elderly. Unlike speech, music is processed in multiple areas of the brain. The limbic system is activated by the emotional response to music, while the elements of music, such as rhythm, pitch and melody, activate other areas of the brain. Elderly people suffering from late stages of dementia often show responses to music, including vocal activity, increased eye contact, changes in facial expression and physical movement. Drumming provides a welcome diversion, inspires creativity and helps long term care residents bond together. It brings an immediate reduction in feelings of loneliness and isolation. The physical exercise is also extremely beneficial, especially to the upper body. Drums can be strapped to wheelchairs and there are numerous percussion instruments that are suited to virtually anyone who wants to join in the rhythm. The staffs of old age/nursing homes are also equally enthusiastic about the unique activity as it allows them to also engage and join in, relieving stress and forming new bonds with the participants. Please go to http://soundsynergy.com.au for more details on these sessions. We continue to offer our programs best we can to centres with very limited budgets. In order to continue the research and put smiles on the clients faces, we need support in the form of funding. Please contact Gareth at Sound Synergy (details on the website) for more information.