Lion Manor residents bring music to Richmond Hospital
The Clever Tones, a musical group made up of nine residents from Richmond Lions Manor-Bridgeport, brought their love of music to Richmond Hospital last week for an afternoon tone bell performance.
“It’s never too late to pick up an instrument,” said Music Therapist Annie Yip who — along with colleagues Lennie Tan and Brendan Shields — bring music to residents and patients weekly at Lions Manor, Minoru Residence and Richmond Hospital.
The musical interludes are much-anticipated at all three facilities where residents not only play and listen to music, but they also dance and sing. “Sharing music leads to a sense of well-being and helps build community,” said Lennie Tan.
The Music Therapy program has been in place for 10 years, thanks to ongoing support from the Richmond Hospital/Healthcare Auxiliary. Its goal is to help residents maintain a high quality of life.
The power of music
Monica Redekopp, VCH Richmond’s Director of Professional Practice, Nursing and Allied Health, has heard a number of stories where music therapy played a pivotal role in engaging a resident with the health care team. Most, she recalled, were challenging situations in which the team was struggling to “connect” with the patient in their care.
“Music was the bridge,” said Redekopp, Professional Practice, Nursing and Allied Health.
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is the skillful use of music and musical elements by an accredited music therapist to promote, maintain, and restore mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Music has nonverbal, creative, structural, and emotional qualities. These are used in the therapeutic relationship to facilitate contact, interaction, self-awareness, learning, self-expression, communication, and personal development.
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