Remedies In Rhythm, based in Alanson, is the creation of Hannah Hoffman, MT-BC, a board certified music therapist who attended Interlochen Arts Academy and University of Kansas. Hoffman brings with her a warm and welcoming spirit, combined with professional expertise, which is quickly spreading a positive vibe throughout the facility. “We are always looking for ways to connect with residents through healthy stimuli, and music therapy seems to check all the boxes. It’s fun, it’s relaxing, and the effect on our residents is noticeable. Clearly, music therapy is an asset which we’ll use again and again,” explains Jennifer Johnston, Bay Bluffs Activities Director.
Hoffman uses musical performance, sing-alongs and movement, based on resident preferences and therapeutic strategies to engage participants. Music therapy is useful for groups as well as individuals. “Music lights up the whole brain. Even for people with cognitive impairments, songs can help them come back to themselves even for just a short time,” Hoffman explains.
In fact, the science behind music therapy indicates changes in the brain which can actually have positive effects on the connection between neuroplasticity, or how the brain is able to react, and its neural networks, which control the ability to process information and carry out various functions. In elderly populations, including those with dementia and diseases such as Parkinson’s, music therapy has measurable impacts on cognition, emotional and social wellbeing, physical health and other therapeutic goals, all without using drug interventions. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10765015).
“This therapy goes beyond resident outcomes and links us all to music that we know and love,” adds Johnston. “And, a happy workplace also makes for happy employees, which strengthens our already strong employee retention record.”
Remedies in Rhythm programs at Bay Bluffs were made possible through a grant from the Petoskey–Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation from January through June. Following the program’s success and strong resident engagement, the Bay Bluffs Foundation has stepped forward to support an additional six months of programming. “Donations have made this program possible, and we are grateful to all who support nursing home care,” Ashley adds.
For more information about Bay Bluffs, visit baybluffs.org. Details about employment opportunities can be found at baybluffs.org/employment or by calling 231-526-2161.
Several photos courtesy of Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation…thank you!
