The Youth Philanthropy Council of the Northern New York Community Foundation visited the Hospice Center this month to learn more about how their generous grant is helping residents in St. Lawrence County. The YPC of NNY selected Hospice to fund our new Music & Memory program.
Music & Memory is intended for patients living with a dementia-related illness and provides therapy through the playing of familiar and meaningful music. Research shows that, when done appropriately, the use of music with patients who suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia can help relax them, increase communication and can contribute to their quality of life. This program also provides a great way for our volunteers to connect with patients.
With the help of the Youth Philanthropy Council, 8 Hospice staff members and volunteers were certified by the nationally recognized Music & Memory Program. Their grant allowed us to purchased equipment such as iPods and earphones and music from iTunes . We have already seen the use of music impact the lives of several patients. According to Volunteer Kay Church (who has been a Hospice volunteer for 22 years) “this has been the best addition to our programs that I have ever seen.” Hospice looks forward to expanding the program to reach more patients to bring them some comfort and joy at a time when it can be scarce.
Many thanks to the members of the Youth Philanthropy Council and the Northern New York Community Foundation!!!