Music is a wonderful way to connect with others and create an atmosphere of joy and hope. Even when words become difficult, a familiar song can awaken memories, bring a smile, or move the heart.

How to share music

When we share music with residents, we don’t have to stand in front of them and perform. We invite them to experience the music with us.

1. Sit beside a resident and make eye contact.
2. If they are comfortable with touch, gently take their hand and move it with the music.
3. Clap together. Tap your hands. Sway together.
4. Smile—and sing together.
5. Play the music in the background during your Game and Craft time.

Don’t worry about whether they are singing the right words or making the right movements. There is no right or wrong. We are simply enjoying the moment together.

The goal isn’t a perfect performance. The goal is connection.

For a resident with dementia, a familiar song may bring back a feeling or memory that words cannot reach. And when we gently hold their hand and move to the music together, we are communicating something even deeper:

“I am here with you. You are not alone. You are worth my time.”

Build a playlist

Create a playlist of songs to take to the nursing home—and play it during crafts, games, and handouts, too. Here are some suggestions.

Uplifting songs that pair well with movement

• “You are my Sunshine” by Jimmie Davis
• “Whatever Will Be, Will Be” by Doris Day
• “What a Wonderful World” Louis Armstrong
• “Beyond the Sea” by Bobby Darin
• “I Can See Clearly Now” by Jonny Nash
• “Let’s Twist Again” by Chubby Checker While the resident is sitting, gently take their hands and move back and forth.
• “Battle Hymn of the Republic” from 33 Must-Have Great American Hymns by Christian Gospel Choir
• “America the Beautiful” from 33 Must-Have Great American Hymns by Christian Gospel Choir
• “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” by Laurie London Bring balloons to pat back and forth.
• “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” by Patsy Cline
• “Love Lifted Me” by Encounter Music
• “Who You Say I Am” by Hillsong

Familiar hymns and songs that bring peace

• “Victory in Jesus” by Christian Gospel Choir
• “In the Garden” Elvis Presley
• “Forever” by Chris Tomlin
• “Come to the Altar” by Elevation Worship
• “Jesus Paid It All” by Shane & Shane
• “Amazing Grace” by Elvis Presely
• “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” by Christian Gospel Choir
• “Creation Calls” by Brian Doerksen
• “How Great Thou Art” by Carrie Underwood
• “Aaron’s Blessing” by Fernando Ortega

We aren’t just bringing music into a care facility. We’re bringing joy—and we’re sharing it together.