Using Bells in Music Therapy: How Group Participation Enhances Social and Physic

1. Using Bells in Music Therapy: How Group Participation Enhances Social and Physical Skills in Memory Care 905.888.8808 info@memoryandcompany.com

2. Music Therapy in Memory Care • Music therapy plays a vital role in Memory Care, promoting social interaction, cognitive function, and fine motor skills. • It stimulates brain areas related to memory and emotions, often alongside therapies like art and pet therapy. • Research by the Canadian Association of Music Therapists shows that music therapy reduces anxiety, boosts mood, and encourages positive emotions, especially when music evokes happy memories. This makes it a powerful tool for improving emotional well-being in those with memory loss.

3. The Benefits of Bell Therapy in Memory Care • Calming Tones: Bells' clear, soothing sounds are ideal for individuals with dementia, offering a calming, rhythmic quality without overstimulation. • Simple & Accessible: Bell instruments like tone chimes are easy to play, promoting participation regardless of cognitive or physical abilities. • Sensory Memory: The sound of bells stimulates long-term memories, evoking comfort and familiarity. • Physical & Cognitive Engagement: Playing bells improves hand coordination, motor skills, and cognitive functions like focus and attention.

4. Social Benefits of Group Music Therapy • Promoting Interaction: Group sessions help reduce isolation and loneliness by fostering social connections and friendships. • Building Trust & Teamwork: Collaborative music-making strengthens cooperation, trust, and unity among participants. • Fostering Self-Expression: Music offers a creative outlet for emotional release, supporting those who struggle to communicate verbally. These benefits create a supportive, caring environment that enhances social and emotional well-being in memory care settings.

5. Techniques Used in Bell Therapy • Following Cues & Playing Tone Chimes: Improves focus, coordination, and cognitive functions by encouraging attention and response time. • Group Discussions & Song Selections: Boosts verbal communication and emotional engagement through shared experiences and familiar songs. • Personalization: Tailored sessions, including weight of bells and song choices, create meaningful sensory memories and stimulate long-term recall.

6. Role of Music Therapy in Memory Care Plans • Integration with Other Therapies: Enhances cognitive stimulation (bell therapy), physical engagement (pet therapy), and emotional well-being alongside other therapies. • Long-Term Benefits: Regular music therapy improves cognitive functions, stabilizes mood, and reduces anxiety by stimulating dopamine release. • Care Partner Support: Provides peace of mind for caregivers knowing their loved ones are engaged in joyful, enriching activities.

7. Experience the Benefits of Music Therapy at Memory & Company • At Memory & Company, we offer comprehensive dementia care with 24/7 security, including Respite Care, a Premium Day Program, and short- and long-term care. • Our team of medical professionals provides compassionate care in a therapeutic, calming environment, incorporating music therapy for cognitive, emotional, and social benefits. • Ref: https://memoryandcompany.com/blog/using-bells-in-music-therapy-for-memory-care/

8. CONTACT US MARKHAM CLUB OAKVILLE CLUB 100 Renfrew Drive, Suite 110 Markham, Ontario L3R 9R6 407 Iroquois Shore Road, Unit 1 Oakville, Ontario L6H 1M3 markham@memoryandcompany.com oakville@memoryandcompany.com 905.888.8808 info@memoryandcompany.com www.memoryandcompany.com

9. Thank you 905.888.8808 info@memoryandcompany.com www.memoryandcompany.com