• Location: Springfield, Illinois
• Client: Concordia Village
• Sector: Senior Living / Dementia Care
• Products Featured: Harmony Flowers, Cavatina

Transforming Senior Living with Music Therapy

At Concordia Village, a vibrant continuum care community in Springfield, Illinois, music has become a transformative force. Through the installation of Percussion Play’s outdoor musical instruments, residents are experiencing renewed joy, cognitive stimulation, and meaningful social connections.

With over 380 residents across four levels of living, Concordia Village is committed to enriching lives through innovative therapeutic programmes. One such initiative is the EverTrue: Still You programme, designed specifically for individuals living with dementia. This holistic approach integrates therapeutic horticulture, art therapy, and music therapy to support emotional and cognitive well-being.

Outdoor Musical Instruments Enhance Dementia Care

Greta Huseman, Director of Community Enrichment at Concordia Village, has seen firsthand the impact of outdoor music-making. “Out of our 15 communities, three or four have these instruments now,” she shares. “It is just life-changing.”

The newly installed outdoor musical instruments are strategically placed in memory support areas and dedicated Sound Gardens for independent living residents. Among the instruments are the visually stunning Harmony Flowers and the Rainbow Cavatina, which includes a Music Book to guide exploration.

For many residents, these instruments evoke powerful memories of playing music earlier in life. The familiar tones spark recognition and nostalgia, creating moments of joy and emotional connection. Some residents have even formed their own band, gathering regularly to play together like a rock group — a testament to the instruments’ ability to foster community and fun.

“The beautiful thing about Percussion Play’s instruments is that you can hit different parts — like the petals on the flowers — and create different tones,” Greta explains. “That makes the residents curious! Every time they play, it’s a new experience.”

Cognitive Engagement Through Sound

Beyond enjoyment, the instruments offer valuable cognitive stimulation. On the Rainbow Cavatina, residents engage their memory and problem-solving skills by experimenting with coloured notes and discovering which sounds they produce. This interactive experience supports brain health while providing a sense of accomplishment and learning.

A Meaningful Outdoor Experience

Whether it's the thrill of making music, the satisfaction of learning something new, or simply the pleasure of being outdoors, Concordia Village’s Sound Gardens are enriching lives in a deeply meaningful way. The integration of Percussion Play’s outdoor musical instruments into dementia care and independent living programmes exemplifies how music can be a powerful tool for healing, connection, and joy.