New agreement supports Perfect Harmony music program for seniors
To advance one of its signature community outreach programs, the Great American Songbook Foundation has begun a partnership with Story Cottage, a new memory-care housing option from Senior Home Companions.
The partnership supports Perfect Harmony, a music resource for older adults developed by the Songbook Foundation in consultation with a board-certified music therapist. Recognizing the power of music to enhance quality of life for seniors – particularly those living with dementia – Perfect Harmony helps caregivers identify generationally appropriate music and activities to engage their clients or loved ones in shared musical experiences.
For many older adults today, the music of choice comes from the Great American Songbook, the popular songs, jazz standards, and Broadway and Hollywood favorites of the 20th century that have stood the test of time. Each month, the Perfect Harmony program provides a themed online package of video resources and music activities suitable for individual and group settings, in the tradition of families and friends gathering around a piano and experiencing music together.
“A growing number of family caregivers and eldercare professionals are drawing on these resources as they see the unique power of music to connect us with our memories and with the people around us,” Songbook Foundation Executive Director Christopher Lewis said. “We’re grateful to Story Cottage and Senior Home Companions for recognizing the value of the Perfect Harmony program.”
Story Cottage, an innovative concept launched in 2019, provides a private, small-group residential setting for older adults living with memory loss. Constructed much like custom homes, the cottages in Carmel and Indianapolis offer premium safety features and a low patient-to-caregiver ratio.
Story Cottage Executive Director Diane Kohan has seen firsthand the positive impact that music can have in memory-care settings.
“The Songbook provides us with enriching, timeless music for our residents to enjoy,” Kohan said. “Music can inspire dance and movement in an individual with Alzheimer’s, providing exercise while soothing agitation. Even in late stages of dementia they may be able to still tap to the beat of their favorite childhood song.”
Senior Home Companions Marketing Coordinator Kirstin Comment said the Songbook Foundation’s broader mission – which includes maintaining a vast Library & Archives dedicated to the music’s creators and performers – added to the appeal of the relationship.
“We chose to partner with the Great American Songbook Foundation because we believe in the mission of preserving music and all of its history for generations to come,” Comment said.