Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Greater Mercer County has announced that it has become a certified provider of Music & Memory, an award-winning program that offers personalized music to older adults who are aging in their own homes. The purpose of Music & Memory is to enhance quality of life by helping people reconnect with the world through personalized music and music-triggered memories. JFCS will be offering the program to seniors in their own homes who are isolated, living with dementia, cognitive decline and other chronic illnesses.
Michelle Napell, Executive Director of JFCS, explains, “Music can transport us to our past and bring about fond memories from youth or life’s special events.” She explains that specific artists and songs are the key to the program’s success. “Music & Memory’s work is rooted in extensive neuroscience research and listening to person-centered music has had some amazing benefits: increased attention and cooperation, reduced confusion and agitation, as well as enhanced engagement and socialization.”
JFCS will provide Music & Memory participants with:
- An iPod Shuffle, headphones and a personally-selected playlist of songs
- An assessment to determine music preferences
- A home visit by a JFCS licensed social worker to instruct the participant and/or the caregiver on how to use the iPod
- Follow-up to evaluate the program and to modify playlists
“We are honored to be one of the charter agencies that will be offering the program in a home setting,” says Beverly Mishkin, JFCS Director of Senior Services. “Family members will be invited and encouraged to get involved in helping to form their loved one’s personalized playlist. This is an ongoing opportunity for loved ones to take a musical journey together.”
There is no fee for participation as the program is made possible by grants from Janssen Pharmaceuticals and the Association of Jewish Family & Children’s Agencies. For full details, see the program flyer or contact Beverly Mishkin at 609-987-8100, ext. 203 or beverlym@jfcsonline.org.
