Alzheimer Care Recipients to Benefit from Outreach by Utah Symphony and Utah Opera Musicians

Utah Symphony | Utah Opera and the Utah Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association today announced the details of the May 2013 Making Sense of Alzheimer's Month. This collaboration between the two organizations began four years ago with the goal of increasing concern and awareness regarding Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in Utah.

Events are planned to provide opportunities to stimulate the senses of those with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. During the month of May, Utah Symphony and Utah Opera musicians will volunteer their time to perform at local assisted living communities. Also, free and discount ticket opportunities for care recipients, their families, and other care givers will be available for Utah Symphony and Utah Opera performances.

As part of the Alzheimer Association's ongoing physician outreach efforts, a pre-concert reception and lecture will be held prior to the Utah Symphony's May 4, 2013 performance. Local physicians and researchers will have the opportunity to hear Dr. Dean M. Hartley, Ph.D. speak on the changing face of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias research and diagnosis.

Music holds immense potential to impact the quality of life for individuals with dementia. It is a form of sensory stimulation, which provokes responses due to familiarity, predictability and feelings of security. Seeing and hearing professional musicians perform has a positive impact on functionality with these individuals and often encourages reminiscence, conversations and endearing connections otherwise forfeited.