Harmar Place Expands Music & Memory Through Grant

Music and Memory at Harmar Place

United Church Homes and Harmar Place are certified providers of Music & Memory, a nationally recognized organization that is transforming the treatment and care of people with Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive decline, physical limitations and ongoing health challenges.

Harmar Place staff members have completed training to learn how to create and provide personalized playlists that enable older adults, particularly those struggling with dementia, to reconnect with the world through memories triggered by the music they love. The process builds lasting, caring relationships and improves the care experience for all involved.

“Personalized music provides a means of communication and self-expression when verbal language abilities are diminished,” Harmar Place Administrator Susan Boulton said. “Personalized music can also relieve agitation and provide a distraction from fear and anxiety for individuals struggling with dementia. Music & Memory is another important tool for staff allowing them to connect in a more meaningful way with all residents, especially those living with advanced dementia.”

Harmar Place is home to 86 residents living in memory care, Fast Track Rehab and long-term care. It focuses on serving physical, intellectual and spiritual needs and is dedicated to creating environments where older adults can choose the life they deserve.

The grant expands Music & Memory by purchasing iPod Shuffles, headphones, iTunes cards for purchasing music and speakers for residents who prefer not to use headphones and for community spaces.

For more information about United Church Homes, visit unitedchurchhomes.org.

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About United Church Homes: United Church Homes, based in Marion, Ohio, has been “Celebrating the Spirit” of seniors for more than a century. The nonprofit, faith-based organization is one of the nation’s largest providers of senior living services, with more than 1,800 dedicated staff serving 4,700 residents of all faiths in 72 senior living communities throughout 14 states and two Native American nations. UCH is in covenant with the United Church of Christ and welcomes residents of all faiths.

Media Contact: Alissa Paolella, Communications Coordinator, 740.382.4885 or apaolella@uchinc.org