Cathy Gilmore
Music and song are tied to our memories.
The Ukulele Club of Quail Creek was fortunate enough to be able to play at the Memory Café at La Posada on Nov. 18.
The Memory Café is open every third Saturday of the month and offers a safe, supportive, and fun place to socialize for individuals who are experiencing memory loss, along with supportive friends, family, and caregivers.
Activities include entertainment by local musicians, craft activities, snacks and drinks, and visiting. The Ukulele Club played popular songs ranging from Hank Williams country to Elvis rock and roll. Those in attendance were familiar with many of the songs and were encouraged to sing along. Research has shown that music is strongly tied to memories and emotions and can help in bringing back specific incidences tied to a song. Singing and listening to music have been shown to stimulate parts of the brain that involve reasoning, problem-solving, emotions, and, of course, memory. Music also brings us together physically and emotionally to share life experiences. This was evident during our concert, as inhibitions were dropped, and we all had a great time singing together.
If you would like to sing along with us for the holidays, the Quail Creek Ukulele Club will be performing at the Farmer’s Market at La Posada Shoppes on Dec. 18!