Jitterbugs Music & Movement, LLC

Jitterbugs Music & Movement offers Music & Movement for Seniors & Intergenerational Music Programs. During the sessions, the participants will experiment with different types of instruments such as rhythm sticks, egg shakers, and wrist bells. They will participate in bean bag activities and dance with scarves. They will also enjoy playing parachute games.

"From a large nursing care facility, 60 elderly patients diagnosed as having Alzheimer disease were randomly separated into three groups of equal size and given tests to measure their mood and mental state. For    Group 1, Big Band music from the 1920s and 1930s was played during their daily recreation period while   Group 2 were given puzzle exercises during their activity sessions. Members of Group 3 participated in the standard recreational activities of drawing and painting. After six months, the questionnaire was again given to all participants. Analysis of variance showed the indivduals in Group 1 were more alert, happier, and had higher recall of past personal history than patients in the other two groups. This suggests that music can be of therapeutic value to Alzheimer patients." MuSICA Research Notes: VI, II, Spring 1994 (2):451-5

For older adults:

Intergenerational connections increase self-esteem, stimulate learning, deepen emotional support, and improve quality of life.

For children:

Intergenerational connections enhance self-esteem and refute the stereotypes of aging. "Contact with a beloved elder enhances a child's emotional, physical, and spiritual health." Grandparent Foundation

INTERGENERATIONAL PROGRAMS 

Senior & Child Class

Music & Movement class with the residents and their grandchildren or great-grandchildren. This class lasts for 45 minutes. This will keep the children engaged during their visit and increase their connection with their family member by sharing a common bond.

 *Note - the intergenerational classes may also be done with outside groups such as local kindergarten classes, homeschool groups, childcare centers, etc.