Music, Music, Music

Isolation of seniors is a negative contributor to a poor quality of life. The frail older population will state that ‘they do not want to be a burden or bother anyone’ and therefore, do not reach out to family members or friends for help.

When their motivation to attend community events and social activities with family and friends is affected by lack of transportation, economics or their physical conditions then the individual’s health can start to decline.

In long-term care, the resident may be placed for some of the reasons mentioned. The individual will find they are now living in a new residence, in a new community and have people who they eventually come to think of as family.

If it takes a whole community to raise a child, then it also takes a whole community to respect and honor the Elderly.

Right now, one dedicated volunteer plays guitar and sings for the Residents’ enjoyment. Thank you Lucien Lalonde, and his buddies, Dick Hamill and Ross Blakely for coming every Monday afternoon and providing a sing-a-long.

When the professional musicians are able to schedule a performance at Tsiionkwanonhso:te, they are paid from fundraising dollars. The number of fundraisers is kept to a minimum in order not to compete with the youth activities (hockey, lacrosse, and other sports). Consider when the payment request is for American dollars, how this affects the number of performances and individuals able to be hired.

The older generation’s appreciation for the talented fiddle players, guitarists, and vocalists is great! Music takes them to wonderful memories of their youth and raising their families. The entertainers measure their success by watching for the tapping of feet, fingers and clapping of hands and smiles. Everyone benefits from music!

The challenge is how to provide more opportunities for the residents at Tsiionkwanonhso:te (LTC) (a non-profit organization) to enjoy these type of performances without ‘breaking the bank.’

Contact: Teresa David, Supervisor

Recreation & Leisure Program

Tsiionkwanonhso:te (LTC) 613.932.1409 ext. 4