Events and Activities for Summer 2005

Welcome Summer!

The flowers are blooming in our courtyards and the weather is warm enough now to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air. Sitting outside in the courtyard to enjoy the sun and scenery is relaxing and enjoyable at Saint Mary’s. You will see our staff outside eating popsicles with residents and drinking lemonade. A favorite time of year for many of us who live in Michigan.

There are many activities you can experience with your loved one and our activities calendar will give you an idea of what we like to do outside. We have picnics, go fishing and go on outings to the Jazz Fest and many other area hot spots here in West Michigan!

There are also some indoor activities you can experience with your loved one.

Have you considered joining your family member or loved one at Friday Praise? The music, lead by Pastor Ken, takes place every week beginning at 10:30am in the Chapel. Often times the group in the Chapel is so large that the staff has to open up into the Camelot Dining Room to accommodate everyone in attendance. Once situated, Pastor Ken passes out the instruments and warms up the organ. Before you know it the singing can be heard down the hallways of Sanctuary at Saint Mary's. You can tell that each participant is enjoying his or her experience as they listen to the music.

The Alzheimer’s Association lists music therapy as an enriching activity for those with Alzheimer’s disease. “Music can improve social and physical interaction through singing, dancing and clapping,” says a study conducted at Eastern Michigan University. Music can stir up memories, as the participants “think they are in their 20’s and 30’s. They are able to remember the words of songs, so when their families visit there is a bond where there wasn’t any existing before.”

“Music activities are a must for persons suffering from Alzheimer’s disease,” says the published study. The study also indicates that listening to music affects the release of powerful brain chemicals that can regulate mood, reduce aggression and depression and improve sleep.

At Sanctuary at Saint Mary's we know the importance of music therapy and embrace it. The Activities Department sets up as many musical activities in our calendar that will fit in and are always looking for individual volunteers or groups who willing to come in and entertain! We also invite you to look at the Activity calendar for other special seasonal events taking place in the months of July and August!