Join us for Still Rockin’: A Night of Music to Support Programming and Resources for Older Adults

Join us for Still Rockin’: A Night of Music to Support Programming and Resources for Older Adults

Have you ever gotten the chance to listen to a famous musician from a few feet away? Residents of Chicago Methodist Senior Services’ Wesley Place recently got to experience one-on-one live performances from world-famous violinist Lindsey Stirling. The former America’s Got Talent and Dancing With the Stars contestant went room to room, performing some of her original songs with two members of her band.

Stirling is a volunteer artist with Musicians on Call, which brings live music to people in senior care communities and hospitals who have difficulty leaving their rooms.

Kelli Bruno, manager of national music programs for Musicians on Call, said the visiting musicians can make a lasting impact on older adults who may not be able to leave their rooms and socialize often.

Lindsay Stirling playing violin for Seniors at Wesley Place in Chicago

“They really appreciate having visitors,” Bruno said. “And, music can be so beneficial for people with memory loss. It can really transport them back to a happy place. Music has an amazing way of connecting with people.”

Stirling said she enjoys playing music for seniors because she spent a lot of time in the hospital when her dad was sick, and she hopes to bring joy to people in similar circumstances.

“There’s a lot of power and strength in all of these people, and it’s really cool to be able to feel that when you walk in a room,” Stirling said.

Lindsay Stirling playing violin for Seniors at Wesley Place in Chicago

Lindsay Stirling performing music for Seniors at Wesley Place in Chicago

Advantages of Music For Seniors

At Chicago Methodist Senior Services, we make it a priority to provide all kinds of opportunities for older adults to enjoy the benefits of music, from therapeutic music programs to visits from professional musicians.

Besides the joy of listening to a favorite artist or genre of music, the benefits of music for seniors can include:

Bringing The Benefits of Music For Seniors Into Our Care Communities

Beyond visits from Musicians on Call, there are many other ways residents can experience and enjoy the benefits of music at CMSS. Additional music programs like  Music & MemorySM teach caregivers the benefits of personalized music, and shows them how to develop individual playlists for older adults with memory loss.

We also have frequent visits from the Songs By Heart Foundation, which connects people with memory loss to the language and joy of music. Residents at Hartwell Place recently enjoyed hearing Songs By Heart members sing tunes like “Chattanooga Choo Choo” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

Music for Seniors in Chicago, IL

Which artist do you think your loved one would be most excited to hear in person? To learn more about our art and music programs or volunteer opportunities, contact us.

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