August 2018: Age doesn't dictate our ability when it comes to music! challenge is important!

August was a busy month of programs, sessions and new additions. I am particularly impressed with the progress and enjoyment some of our newer facilities are starting to witness.

August saw the introduction of our Interactive music therapy program to the wonderful Avalon House on Sydney's Northern Beaches. The residents were a musical bunch already with several residents exhibiting extraordinary rhythm and abilities to sing and play instruments already. This got me thinking about how we often forget that residents with all their physical hurdles and inevitable age based disabilities are still often incredibly musical and rhythmic and want to be CHALLENGED. I look forward to working with an enthusiastic group of residents at Avalon House on a bi-weekly basis going forward.

September saw Regis Hornsby's Choir perform 9 songs for family and friends as well as a class from Abbotsleigh Girls School. It was a wonderful day and the reception was warm and positive. We are now gearing up towards our yearly Christmas concert in December 2018 and have picked new songs including "Winter Wonderland", "White Christmas" & "Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer" to sing this year.

Turramurra House has seen a boost in attendance and interaction at their therapy sessions leading to an increase in sessions to a Bi-weekly program. I always look forward to working with such enthusiastic and lovely residents and now on a more regular basis!

Karaoke sessions have been rolled out at our Mona Vale House facility and the residents are shy but excited at the opportunity to sing-a-long to songs and pick their favourites! Wireless microphones are provided for the residents to sing so they do not have to exit their chairs (though some of the more outgoing residents enjoy walking around and singing anyway!).

Providing a slightly different program each month for residents is important to keep engagement and challenge residents to improve their interactions with each other as well as the music provided.

Age doesn't dictate our ability when it comes to music! challenge is important!