January 28, 2021
By Katelyn Meeks
Music is immensely important to each generation. Music can help individuals reminisce and meaningful songs can even bring a person back to a moment in their past. We all have impactful songs throughout our life, such as the first dance song at your wedding or the song that played at your graduation. Imagine hearing that song 20 years from now and the memories it would trigger. [Check out Alive Inside and Music & Memory for more information.]
The reality for many older adults with dementia is that they do not have readily accessible music. If they do have a radio, they may not be able to operate it or know how to play a CD with their favorite songs. Many seniors, both at home and in facilities, do not have someone with them who can help stop and start music for them.
The Alz Store has a great solution for this, the Simple Music Player, that I have implemented with several clients. Though it comes in several colors, we affectionately call it “The Red Radio”.
The simplicity of this radio allows for a senior at almost any level of ability to play music without assistance. The top lifts up to automatically play music and lifts down to immediately stop the music. There is only one button, which allows the player to skip to the next song. These three options are very clearly labeled. The volume adjustment is at the bottom and requires a pen or similar item, so the person cannot accidentally play their music too loud or too quiet. I test out the volume before delivering so that it is at an appropriate level. I also provide a simple direction sheet to a caregiver or family member for their reference and am always available for any questions.
The radio comes with several preloaded Big Band style songs. I am also able to add any specific song to the radio as MP3 music files. The radio can hold up to 1,000 songs! At Christmastime, I have added a plethora of festive music and was able to easily remove those songs once the holiday season passed.
The radio offers a great opportunity for the family to be involved. Knowing my clients and their generation, I’ve been able to compile songs that I think they will enjoy and hope the songs will remind them of their youth. However, their family members can tell me songs that they know are impactful or enjoyable to the individual. One client’s daughter sent me a list of nearly 100 songs, I was able to add each to the radio. The client and her daughter listen to the radio on the phone each evening and sing along together, it’s very special to them and has become routine! The client’s daughter states that her mom enjoys recognizing the songs, voices and words in the music.
Another client received the radio as a surprise gift from her children. She raved about how great it was and showed me how easy it is to use. After receiving it, her daughter reported that the client had to call her and tell her how wonderful it is. Nearly each time I visit, she has it playing. It only requires an outlet to play, so she will move it between her Florida room and living room with ease.
Especially in times of isolation, music can serve as an outlet and connection to the outside world and past memories. It’s important to compile the radio with songs that will resonate with them, comfort them, and bring them joy.
Call us if you need help implementing a Red Radio for your loved one!