Amidst a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, a group of Naperville students is bringing back a sense of warmth and community through a unique, heartfelt project. The Haven Music Group is using the universal language of music to spread joy and build connections with residents of senior living communities, including Arbor Terrace Naperville.
NCTV17 covered this inspiring story, and you can watch the full video on their website.
Through these musical performances, the young musicians demonstrate the incredible power of music to bridge generational gaps, offering both entertainment and comfort. For the students, performing at Arbor Terrace has been an opportunity to showcase their talents and connect with a new audience. For the residents, it’s a chance to enjoy live entertainment, engage socially, and relive fond memories through the music.
For those with cognitive impairments, music can be particularly beneficial. Studies have shown that music can help trigger memories and increase engagement in individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. It serves as a form of communication that transcends verbal language, enabling meaningful interactions even when traditional forms of communication are challenging. The students’ performances thus become a source of cognitive stimulation, as well as emotional connection.