Donated iPods Bring Smiles & Comfort to Residents with Memory Loss

Have you ever heard a special song and feel like you were back in the moment of your life when you last heard it, even if it was years ago? Research proves music can bring joy to your heart and reintroduce precious memories of long ago. It soothes, calms and can even temporarily relieve pain. Our brains become invigorated as we remember words to songs that we learned as children, as mothers and fathers when singing lullabies, and as loving couples swaying to a slow song.

Through the generosity of Menorah Park Foundation donors, Menorah Park now has 30 new iPod shuffles. This wonderful gift given by the family of Faye Warren, of blessed memory, supports individualized opportunities under the Music and Memories Program under the auspices of the Dementia Excellence Committee.

“It’s leading to increased socialization, better cooperation, and a better ability to verbalize needs. And, it seems to help them feel happier and forget some of their aches and pains,” according to Cassaundra Sutton, Menorah Park Beachwood Pavilion activities coordinator. The iPods are fully loaded with a resident’s favorite music and are proving to have a positive impact. For instance, one resident who preferred to sleep often is now patting her hands on her lap and looking around and responding positively with the introduction of the iPod. Residents whose primary language is Russian also have a greater opportunity to connect with music in their first language, a real gift.

In the words of Hans Christian Andersen, “Where words fail, music speaks.”

For more information on how you can help bring smiles and comfort to Menorah Park residents, contact Lynn Bercu Krumholz at 216-896-1108 or lkrumholz@menorahpark.org

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