August 28, 2023 by Judith Allen Shone 🍦🍪

RECORDED SONGS

There are songs we know our loved ones once liked to sing, and sometimes they remember words and sing along. And even more, there are songs they have listened to all their life and recognize them still…plus many times, the music goes deep into their soul and brings out smiles and memories that nothing else can do in that way.

And then there are songs that are tributes to those with dementia!.

Maybe these particular songs are more for the caregivers and families and friends and support persons who have watched our loved ones change, observed the signs of memory loss, and have felt the heartaches and joys of living with that person.

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MEMORIES AND MUSIC

“The Alzheimer’s song” (Just to hold her hand) sung by Gregg Steiner and written by Alice Hesselrode.
On Gregg Steiner’s YouTube Channel, he says, “A beautiful song written for family members with loved ones who are or have suffered from Alzheimer’s. Please enjoy, share with family members, click on the like button [on YouTube under this video] if you like it and we wish you all the best for you and your family.”

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Eighteen-year-old Emily Hunter wrote “I’m Still Here” as a touching tribute to her mother following her mother’s diagnosis of memory loss, which followed not long after Emily lost her father to brain cancer. The lyrics to her song are on YouTube just under her video.

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The documentary movie, “ALIVE INSIDE“ brought out how much music impacts our lives and our memories and the associated emotions. (Click movie title and watch the movie on this site on Storytelling in Movies page.)

The iPod Program was suggested in the movie. The Alzheimer Society of Gray Bruce in Ontario is one group who has taken on the program for the loved ones they work with to help bring back life connections.

The iPod Program – Awakening memories we might all participate in

The Alzheimer Society of Gray Bruce region on Ontario Canada has The iPod Program to enhance the experiences of loved ones listening to music. Their program outline is here and is a good model for others who wish to promote music as an outlet for those with memory loss. See also the move, “Alive Inside” a documentary about how music brings the memories of those with memory loss alive!

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I’d like to suggest you create your own playlist on an old iPod or on your phone- call it My Reflection Memories so when you need to have comfort music, you have prepared for it. I can hear your happiness already!

Enjoy!

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Music and Memories (c) 2023 Judith Allen Shone