The Province has provided $50,000 for Concerts in Care, which offers musical programs for seniors in B.C. care homes.
Health Minister Terry Lake made the announcement at the BC Care Providers Association annual conference.
“Music can lift spirits immediately and often takes us back to a memorable time and place when we first experienced a great song,” said Lake. “Government’s investment in Concerts in Care will enrich the health and well-being of seniors in long-term care residences by bringing performances directly to them.”
Concerts in Care is organized by the Health Arts Society, a group that delivers arts programs for people in assisted living residences, residential care centres and retirement homes throughout British Columbia.
“This project brings seniors together in care homes to get culturally
engaged through musical programs, and I’m sure many will be tapping their toes, clapping their hands and maybe even having a dance or two,” said Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors, Darryl Plecas.
There are approximately 800 concerts scheduled around British Columbia this year. The 45-minute programs feature one to four performers who cover a range of genres, including classical and jazz.
“Meeting the basic needs of people in care is clearly a paramount social responsibility, but they are also living their lives, often following many losses. When they can’t go into the public realm we need to bring its treasures to them,” said David Lemon, Health Arts Society founder and artistic director. “Our project is to offer the best music we can from the finest performers in our communities, and we are grateful to the provincial government for participating in our developing program across the province.”
Since 2006, the Province has contributed $325,000 to support the development of Health Arts Society’s music program.