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Numerous studies have shown that music can reduce stress, improve moods, promote creativity and exercise, and much more. With all these great benefits in mind, Sam Mills, activities director for Provision Living at Fenton, created a brand new series of music programming that is loved by residents and staff members of the community.
Known as “Bust a Move,” the program engages memory support residents to work with the activities team to create their own personal playlist of favorite songs. “Our residents have been dancing, singing, and laughing their way through each day since we implemented the ‘Bust A Move’ program,” says Sam. The effects of this program are felt across the entire community, and it has helped residents and care team members bond. “We have already had occasions where staff members bust a move with our seniors. This fun, spontaneous interaction makes everyone’s day a little brighter.”
Music also has a unique ability to associate with feelings and memories. This is a particularly valuable asset for seniors with dementia or other cognitive diseases. Familiar songs like classic oldies and traditional spirituals may evoke a specific set of feelings or memories for seniors. In addition to the individualized playlists in the Bust a Move program, Sam and the activities team create other intentional playlists based around themes and events. “There are so many unique ways we can celebrate with music,” says Sam. “We curate music for specific community activities, holidays and more. We recently curated playlists as part of our Black History Month recognition. There are limitless opportunities to bring music to our residents in a meaningful way.”
Sam and the team are also adding a new component of “Bust a Move” that she calls “Wind Down.” Instead of the generally more active and engaging music that is used during the day, music in the evening shifts to calming, peaceful music and dreamscapes. Seniors with dementia are particularly prone to sleep issues like restlessness and insomnia. The use of the “Wind Down” music has allowed seniors to relax in the evenings and reinforces a good sleep rhythm. The music selection also allows seniors to better focus on creative activities. “The effects of the Dreamscape music we played for the seniors were amazing,” says Sam. “Our normally wired and active residents became calm, focused on activities at hand, and were more ready for bed at a normal time in the evening.”
In addition to the “Bust a Move” and “Wind Down” activities, Provision Living at Fenton will also be starting a new monthly concert series in the community theater. Residents and staff will be able to enjoy videos of live music performances from some of their favorite artists. The pairing of the audio and visual elements can be a very engaging experience for residents. “This new experience offers the comfort of the old style music videos and performances, the familiar songs and celebrities, and the added relaxation of our theater seating,” Sam explains.
Sam started at Provision Living as a front line medication tech at the Fenton community. From this role, she moved to the activities team, concierge, and is now in her current position of activities director. The music program that Sam created for the community was a result of her seeing an opportunity and connecting to her own passions and interests. “The fun times that we have had, the dancing and laughter, has to be the best part of my entire day,” says Sam. “Seeing how happy the music makes our memory support residents, hearing them sing songs they’ve known their entire lives, it’s all such a treat.”
Sam’s passion for above and beyond, personalized care is representative of the entire Provision Living at Fenton culture explains Michael Scully, community executive director. “Loved ones often say to us that they can tell that our team really wants to be here and that they are genuinely invested in our residents’ happiness. It’s not forced.” Michael and the team work to create a community that is not only welcoming, but meets the unique care needs of each senior. Provision Living at Fenton uses Provision Living’s Encircle program, a comprehensive and collaborative healthcare program that creates an individualized care plan for each resident. Encircle focuses on all aspects of a senior’s health and wellbeing allowing them to thrive. “Everything in our community is intentional – the decor, the music, our healthcare technology, the activities and events. Our community is a lot more than just a physical space,” says Michael.
Seniors and loved ones interested in learning more about life at Provision Living at Fenton can visit the community website, or call 1-810-957-4500 to schedule a tour.
