The Music & Memory program is part of the care plan for many Treemont residents and it is always exciting when the program has the desired impact on resident behavior. Treemont has a M&M Team called “The Champions,” consisting of the Administrator, Activity Director, Social Worker and Director of Nursing. In March, Treemont’s team documented three cases in which the team’s use of the music program led to huge success stories on resident behavior and happiness.

Melanie continues, “It was remarkable at our St. Patrick’s Day party, Mrs. Bradley accepted a green lay, as all were wearing green. Normally she did not go out of her room and is not a happy camper. The music changed Miss LaVeta’s tune, it made her so happy she wanted to greet life again!” Ms. LaVeta listened to the Irish music performers and just as the party was on the last song, she motioned to Melanie to come over. “Is it alright if we leave the party just before the crowd does?” Mrs. Bradley asked Melanie. She asked this in a very clear, happy and calm manner. Apparently she and her husband must have typically made a grand exit just before a party ended.  Before the Music & Memory program, Mrs. Bradley had spent significant time in bed talking to herself. Now, Nancy says, “She is very clear and appropriate in her speaking. The music jump started her joy,” says Nancy with tears in her eyes. The new routine is that, after Mrs. Bradley‘s shower, in which she often becomes agitated, the Treemont staff put on her headset and the positive affect continues. When Mrs. Bradley is finished listening to her music, she tells Melanie, “I want to give this back. I don’t want it to be misplaced.”

Music Helps Resident Sleep

In another example, a hospice resident Mrs. Jones required music or the TV to sleep at night. Unfortunately, in a shared room, this kept her roommate Mrs. Vivian Moore up at night. Nancy spoke with Mrs. Jones about the iPod and headset and asked her permission to put on her headset. Instant success. Mrs. Jones is now listening to her beloved gospel music every night on her iPod, and eventually the staff removes he headset once she falls asleep. “Peace in the Valley!,” says Melanie.

The goal of Music & Memory is to get people who are living with cognitive and physical challenges to find renewed joy in life through music favorites. For more information please contact Treemont Health Care Center Activity Director Jeanette Mitchell at 713-783-4100. 

Staff is Key to Resident Success

The most important aspect of any nursing or rehab center is the staff. You can have a brand spanking new building, but it’s the caring staff who are responsive to resident care needs that give families the peace of mind that their loved ones are well cared for. Families place their trust in the team of caregivers at any skilled nursing and rehab facility. To learn more about Treemont Health Care Center’s approach to nursing and rehab, please call Admissions Director Kelli Walleck at 713-783-4100. Treemont is a continuing care retirement campus, with 4 levels of care. To learn more about independent or assisted living options, please call 713-783-6820 or visit www.Treemont.com.