Music Share for Seniors is an organization dedicated to reducing senior social isolation through personalized music-based programs and meaningful social interaction. Our mission is to spark moments of connection, lucidity, and joy, helping seniors rediscover a sense of community and a feeling of belonging.
Our Story
Music Share for Seniors was founded in 2017 by Julian Powell, when he recognized that senior social isolation was a growing threat. Julian was inspired by the “Meals on Wheels” model of providing in-person services that are tailored to the needs of vulnerable members of the community. Music Share for Seniors was initially recognized by RECODE @ Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) and received funding to pilot the project. Since 2017 the organization has continued to grow, and now reaches an average of 250 seniors each month.
Our Mission
Music Share for Seniors mission is to deliver our unique programming to as many isolated seniors as possible. We work hand in hand with the health care facilities we serve in order to reduce the amount of time older adults spend isolated from their community. Currently, our programming is provided to seniors at 14 facilities across the GTA operated by organizations including: Sienna Senior Living, AgeCare, Chartwell, Aspira, Extendicare, and The Baycrest Centre.
What we do
We provide older adults living in health care facilities with individualized music playlists curated to their personal histories, backgrounds and preferences. This is done in an effort to trigger positive memories associated with familiar music, moments of lucidity, and to reconnect them with their past. We train volunteers and placement students to facilitate our music programming during which they listen to and talk about music that is treasured by our senior participants.
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