This activity is for adults with mild to moderate dementia, and could be done alongside their care partners
The primary need that was discussed through my conversations with the folks at the Sanders-Brown Center was for cognitive stimulation for adults with dementia with the goal of maintaining functioning for as long as possible. Another need that was highlighted was for social interaction to decrease feelings of isolation that were increased by the COVID-19 pandemic.
For this activity, I will be leading a recorded sing along. This activity will include well-known songs for the viewers to sing along to or just listen, as well as prompts with discussion/reflection questions. I will introduce each song by providing a bit of background about it, and share some type of reflection at the conclusion of each song as well. The songs will be selected In accordance with the themes that the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging shared with me.
UDL
For “Take Me Home Country Roads” I will be showing printed visual aids that pertain to discussion of the song which is an example of multiple means of representation
For “Chattanooga Choo Choo” the added motion is an example of multiple means of action/expression
For “Do Re Mi” demonstrating and teaching the hand signs of solfege is an example of multiple means of action/expression
SEL
For the beginning of each song, I will ask the viewer to engage with someone who is around them
I will provide several discussion/reminiscence questions to go along with each song that will invite the viewer to engage with their emotions
For “Side By Side” I will give the viewer the task of thanking someone close to them for being a part of their life.
To begin each song, I will thank the viewer for taking the time to enjoy music today
I will ask them to say hello to anyone else who might be with them today, and if they feel comfortable maybe give them a hug or a high five.
“Take Me Home Country Roads”
I will provide the prompt “While you listen to this song, think about the things that remind you of home. What foods is your hometown known for? Are there any sights and attractions that are there? What kind of music do the local musicians play in your hometown?”
After the song, I will say something like “That song talked all about being on a road trip home, and feeling nostalgic for the place you belong. What are some things that you might need on a road trip? I have some ideas.” Then, I will show printed images of a map, snacks, and sunglasses
“Chattanooga Choo Choo”
I will provide the prompt “While you listen to this song, think about your favorite way that you have traveled in the past. Was it by plane? Train? Car? Ship? Some other way?”
After the first verse of the song, I will stop and say, “Now that we’ve heard a bit of the song, listen for that word “choo choo” and when you hear it, move your arm like you’re pulling a train whistle”
“Do Re Mi”
I will provide the prompt “While you listen to this song, think about what movie it is from and the name of the actress who sang it.”
After the song, I will say something like “This song is from the 1965 film The Sound of Music starring Julie Andrews who sings this song! This song incorporates solfege, or syllables that we use to sing a scale. There are also hand signs that go along with solfege.” Then, I would demonstrate the hand signs and ask participants to go back and listen to the song again while pairing it with the hand signs.
“I Got Rhythm”
I will provide the prompt “This George Gershwin tune published in 1930 was first made popular by Ethel Merman’s rendition in the musical Girl Crazy. While you listen, think about the things in your life that make you say “who could ask for anything more?”
After the song, I will say something like “That song talks all about how music can be a big part of our lives. What role does music play in your life? Do you like to sing? Dance? Play an instrument? Listen to music?”
“Side By Side”
I will provide the prompt “This song is an American standard that has been recorded by artists like Dean Martin and Patsy Cline. It reminds us of the value of having someone by your side, even in difficult times. While you’re listening, reflect on a time when you’ve been thankful to have someone by your side.”
After the song’s conclusion, I will say something like “At the beginning of the song, I asked you to think about a time when you’ve been thankful to have someone by your side. If that person is still in your life, I encourage you to reach out to them and thank them for being there for you.”
Guitar
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