Neighbor News
Orpheus Reflections Performs at Older Adult Services
Orpheus Reflections plays for participants of the memory-enhancement Expressions Program at Older Adult Services
Earlier this month, participants of the memory-enhancement Expressions Program at Older Adult Services Advocate Lutheran General Hospital were treated to a private concert from members of Orpheus Reflections, a branch of the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra.
The New York City-based Orpheus Chamber Orchestra was in Illinois to play a concert in downtown Chicago, however, three of their musicians, who are part of Orpheus Reflections, flew in early to deliver a special interactive performance for Expressions participants. Orpheus Reflections is the orchestra’s musical performance group developed specifically for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and their care partners.
“Having musicians from Orpheus Reflections who are part of a nationally known orchestra come to our site is a unique experience. Many of our participants would not feel comfortable being in a large setting or traveling long distances so it is wonderful that they are coming to us,” said Gwynne Chovanec, director of Older Adult Services at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
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Musicians played selections featuring a violin, viola, and flute. They performed for 45-minutes to a memorized audience. The performance was followed by a question and answer session and light refreshments.
“Studies suggest that in Alzheimer’s disease, music can enhance access to memories, enhance communication and improve affective (emotional) state. Music can also sometimes help people recall old memories that may have seemed lost to them when they tried to access the information verbally,” said Dr. Darren Gitelman, senior medical director of the Advocate Memory Center at Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Il.
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Much research has been done on the benefits of music therapy. Research suggests that engaging with music, either listening to songs or singing them, can benefit those living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia emotionally and behaviorally. Music can also positively impact caregivers by helping reduce their stress and anxiety.
Bringing in musicians is just one way Chovanec and her team help improve the quality of life of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. In addition to music therapy, the Center utilizes art and dance therapy and has even brought therapy animals – dogs and mini horses – in to visit participants throughout the day. They are always providing innovative ways to engage the adults who utilize their services. The center is open from 7 am to 5:30 pm on weekdays and offers a safe, secure, and stimulating environment for older adults who have physical or cognitive concerns and may require assistance.“The creative arts, and particularly music, can reach individuals regardless of what stage of memory loss someone has,” says Chovanec. “Recognizing tunes from their past brings comfort, while hearing new music can bring excitement and smiles. Anxiety and fear lessen and self-confidence is restored.”
The Expressions program is held from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily and offers older adults the opportunity to socialize, pursue creative projects such as improv, storytelling, and art. Exercise and movement activities are also a part of the program as is engaging in brain fitness and educational activities focused on improving memory, developing coping strategies, and discussions around changing roles and relationships and planning for the future.
“Participating in a program like Expressions can improve older adults’ self-confidence and self-esteem, foster a sense of community and camaraderie, and helps participants and caregivers become more informed about dementia,” said Chovanec.
