Kansas City Community Matters October 2015

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Commun ty Matters Kansas City Presbyterian Manor

COMING UP IN COMMUNITY MATTERS:

Everyone has a story to tell

Christmas will be here before we know it, and we’ll be talking about celebrations and traditions in an upcoming issue of Community Matters as we celebrate the holidays. Does your family have a special tradition? Is there a song that immediately conjures up memories of Christmases past? Do you have a memorable Christmas story to share? Contact Tina Ashford, activity director, and your story may be selected to appear in an upcoming Community Matters.

October 2015

Music and Memory project coming to Presbyterian Manor

Few things are more personal than our musical tastes. Favorite songs trigger rich memories and influence our moods. That’s why social worker Dan Cohen launched an effort in 2008 to bring individualized music to residents in long-term care.

Cohen founded the nonprofit Music & Memory, which provides residents in long-term care with iPod personal music players that are loaded with each recipient’s favorite songs.

Kim Fanning, senior vice president education and training for Presbyterian Manors, said all of the PMMA communities are taking advantage of the opportunity. Training sessions for employees took place in July and the program will begin this fall.

“I have music I prefer, and so does everyone,” Fanning said. “It has the benefit of reducing aggressive behavior, improving mood and increasing socialization.”

Kansas City Presbyterian Manor will build up its collection with fundraisers and donation drives, Fanning said.

Then they will rely on volunteers to load each person’s chosen songs onto their music players.

“I see this as intergenerational opportunity and a good volunteer piece, because we have to sustain this program and customize playlists,” Fanning said. She said some Manor communities already are reaching out to residents in independent living to help other residents set up their players. And she thinks it would be a good opportunity for teens to earn community service credit for school.

Thinkstock photo

MUSIC continued on page 4


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