Kate Dupuis, Ph.D., C.Psych; Kathy Lepp, MTA; Melissa Jessop, RP, MTA – “Benefits of Intergenerational Music Therapy for Individuals Across the Lifespan”

Music-based activities can offer opportunities for connection. Music is a universal language and a safe place for people to meet when spoken communication becomes more challenging. Intergenerational relationships can help to address the loneliness and social isolation so often experienced by older adults, especially those living in communal settings like long-term care homes. Sadly, many individuals are aging without the opportunity for meaningful intergenerational connections. The Intergenerational Jamboree was created to address this issue. The Jamboree is a music therapy program in which young children, typically under the age of 4, and their accompanying adults (e.g., parent, grandparent) take part in weekly music therapy sessions along with older adults. During each session, an accredited music therapist leads the group in singing songs, moving to music, using instruments and props (e.g., drums, scarves,  bubbles) and gently facilitates interaction between participants. Additional care providers (e.g., recreation team members) observe, support and can participate in the program alongside the residents. The Jamboree provides opportunities to connect through music and promotes intergenerational relationships between participants of all ages. Having children come into these spaces with older adults can help to break down stigma about aging and dementia. Formal evaluation of the Jamboree has demonstrated positive benefits for those who participate in and observe the sessions. The impact of the Jamboree program is wide-ranging and can help provide a sense of anticipation, connection, and community to the entire site. We will explain how to bring this innovative and powerful program to settings across the globe, and how to help older adults create and engage in meaningful intergenerational opportunities with younger children from the community.

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