Songs by Heart: Bringing Joy and Connection to Memory Care Residents at Plymouth Place
Music has the unique ability to transcend barriers, evoking emotions and memories in ways words alone cannot. With that in mind, Plymouth Place—a leader in senior living and memory care in La Grange Park, IL—has partnered with Songs by Heart, an engagement-centered therapeutic music program designed for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The Power of Music in Memory Care
As pioneers in aging well, Plymouth Place embraces innovative programming. “We’re continually seeking creative solutions to enrich the lives of our residents,” said Paddy Homan, Senior Director of Philanthropy at Plymouth Place. “This donor-funded program definitely delivers on that promise.”
Research shows that music stimulates movement, emotion and memory, making it an invaluable tool in dementia care. Songs by Heart takes this a step further, using the power of music to foster joy, connection and cognitive engagement.
Each week, a professionally trained singer and pianist lead residents through sing-alongs featuring beloved classics like Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Let Me Call You Sweetheart and Take Me Out to the Ball Game. According to Emily Becker, a founding member of Songs by Heart, other crowd favorites include patriotic songs like God Bless America and America the Beautiful, as well as old standards like A Bicycle Built for Two.
During a recent session at Plymouth Place, the group sang Happy Birthday to a resident celebrating her 100th birthday. As voices joined together in a moment of pure joy, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
Engaging Hearts and Minds
More than just music, these sessions incorporate clapping, movement and conversation—engaging residents in a way that transcends memory loss. The impact is extraordinary. Residents who rarely speak suddenly light up and sing along.
In her 10 years with Songs by Heart, Emily Becker has heard countless stories of the program’s profound success. She recalls a touching moment when a woman who had not spoken in years suddenly sang every word to every song. Her daughter, moved to tears, witnessed a side of her mother she thought was lost. Another participant, who is typically restless and disengaged, immediately comes to life whenever he hears Elvis Presley.
“Even when they can’t form all the words, there is a trigger of recognition,” said Cheri Boublis, Senior Director of Hospitality Services at Plymouth Place. “Music brings a sense of comfort and familiarity that nothing else can.”
Senior Director of Hospitality Services, Plymouth Place
A National Movement with Local Roots
Songs by Heart was founded in Chicago by renowned opera singer Nancy Gustafson, who discovered that her mother—despite advanced dementia—could still express herself through music. Nancy has performed world-wide, including at the Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Paris Opera, and has shared the stage with Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli and other legendary artists.
Today, Songs by Heart serves over 40 memory care communities nationwide. What sets this non-profit organization apart from other music therapy programs is the caliber of the talent. The singers are all highly trained professionals with backgrounds in opera and musical theater. They are also accompanied by a professional pianist, giving them the freedom to sing, dance and personally engage with residents.
“Songs by Heart is made possible through philanthropic support,” said Paddy Homan. “Support from donors allows us to continually enhance programs that bring joy and engagement to our residents.”
Beyond Music: Unparalleled Memory Care
Songs by Heart is just one of many ways Plymouth Place enriches the lives of those living with dementia. Our two progressive memory support neighborhoods provide compassionate, individualized care in a safe and engaging environment.
Residents with their family and friends also enjoy full access to our vibrant campus, which includes:
- Exceptional dining
- A state-of-the-art wellness center
- A full-service hair salon
- Pampering services like massages and mani/pedis.
Here, memory care is not just about safety—it’s about thriving.
To learn more about how Plymouth Place provides innovative, personalized memory care that fosters dignity, connection and joy—or to discover more about Songs by Heart—call (708) 482-6511 or visit plymouthplace.org.