Seniors For Living

“Music can do things which language can’t.” – Dr. Oliver Sacks

This powerful statement is just one of many moving moments in the trailer from “Alive Inside,” a documentary profiling the power of music to help those in nursing homes.

News and social media outlets everywhere are covering the release of the film. Check out this video clip from ABC’s Good Morning America; the story is featured on their site today:

You’ll probably recognize Henry Dryer, the 92-year-old man with dementia who is now an internet superstar. After giving him an iPod loaded with some of his favorite tunes, Dryer “comes alive” and speaks eloquently and passionately about the music’s effects: “I feel a band of love, dreams…It gives me the feeling of love, romance!”

Music & Memory is the nonprofit organization that is bringing the joy of music (via iPods) to residents of nursing homes, where director Michael Rossato-Bennett was surprised to learn that “more than 90% of residents’ time is spent idle.” The project is making waves, awakening seniors (particularly those with Alzheimer’s) in a simple yet striking manner.

Music therapy in senior living, whether in assisted living or nursing homes, has always been met with great success; senior care professionals across the country have seen the healing power of music at work for many years.

Thanks to Henry Dryer’s inspirational awakening, the rest of the world will know it too.