Music therapy in Collier County: Rhythm Sticks uplift memory care residents

Music has the power to transport us back to cherished moments in time. For one drumming group in Collier County, it serves as a form of memory care therapy.

On a Friday afternoon in February, the South Regional Library in Collier County was alive with sound and energy.

"Encore! Encore!" the audience shouted, as the music filled the room.

The group's bandmates are residents at Arden Courts of Lely Palms, a memory care facility off Rattlesnake Hammock Road in Collier County.

Lesley Chandler, the facility's Lifestyle Enrichment Coordinator, introduced the group at their Valentine's day concert earlier this month.

"This is our drumming group. We're called the Rhythm Sticks," said Chandler.

Larry Nelson, a resident at Arden Courts, expressed his connection to the music.

"I feel the music. I feel the music of the drumming," said Nelson. "It was just a lot of fun."

Meredith Dee, daughter of an Arden Courts resident, shared her appreciation for the group.

"I love it because this is happy and upbeat. You know, a lot of people think about memory care and that that's sad," said Dee.

The music brought smiles and joy to everyone involved.

"It brings back memories for them, like we've had residents that are nonverbal, and then when they hear the song, they'll be clicking their fingers, they'll be tapping their toes," said Chandler.

Pat Ward, an audience member, spoke about her experience with the group.

"These people are angels," said Ward. "My partner was in Arden Courts for three and a half years, and she loved the band and she loved the place."

Ward described her partner, Paula, as a joyful music lover.

"I was filled with guilt about not being able to take care of her. And, you know, little by little, I just came to understand that these people were there. They did a marvelous show," said Ward.

Paula passed away on February 28, but Ward feels her presence in the music.

"It brought her a sense of happiness that was just joy. It was great to see," said Ward. "Paula, you would have loved today, because you would have gotten a standing ovation by yourself for the way you react."

The music created by the 'Rhythm Sticks' is a powerful form of therapy for both the performers and the audience.

For more information on Arden Courts click here.

For more information on Collier County's South Regional Library click here.