As an advocate for the human’s adventurous and creative spirit through interactive expression and communication, and in response to the global COVID-19 virus’ impact on the community she serves, professional touring, vocal jazz musician Shannon Wallace, CDP has created the first-ever virtual and interactive live streaming and on-demand Music, Movement & Memory workshop program aimed to serve those of all ages living with all stages of dementia and cognitive impairment, along with their care partners.
Each live and pre-recorded video features Wallace interacting with her virtual audience who then experiences full-body movement exercises; memory and hand-eye coordination games; problem-solving games (i.e. mathematics, geography, science and history); humor and interactive, reflective conversation, all set to music and/or rhythm. Subscribers can access this service at MusicalMemoryCare.com from most digital, streaming devices.
The live streaming user-experience also includes an interactive chat component; while the growing library of pre-recorded videos also cover topics, ideas and concepts relevant to health, family, life, mindfulness, and overall well-being.
“We are living in unprecedented times,” says Wallace. “As a result, I felt the need to create a technologically innovative and accessible way to support, stimulate and engage those who have to tightly remain within the safety of their current and familiar environments. No matter the physical or mental ability or limitation, the program seeks to provide a shared sense of community and teamwork, evoking endless possibilities of emotional, mental, physical and verbal responses.”
Two subscription levels are available: Individual Plan (dedicated to those aging in-place and /or in-home caregivers/care partners to those aging in-place); and a Corporate Plan (dedicated to companies/organizations and property management operations serving those living independent and assisted lifestyles, as well as memory care/long term care).
Wallace’s career spans more than 25 years in international music, marketing, television and public policy/advocacy. For the past five years, she has specialized in in-person, interactive music, movement and memory group workshops for those of all ages living with dementia/cognitive impairment and their care partners, as well as personal and customized 1:1 workshops.
Wallace is a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP). Program supporters currently include: Barrow Neurological Institute, AARP-AZ, Scottsdale Arts, Cadence Senior Living, and Jewish Family & Children’s Services (JFCS).
