The Power of Music in Every Stage of the Journey
Olivia Cohen, MS, MT-BC, LCAT, CDP
Director of Early-Stage and Engagement Services, ocohen@cknyc.org
At CaringKind, we believe deeply in designing programs that not only support families living with dementia but also promote brain health, meaningful engagement, and emotional well-being. Through our Connect2Music initiative, we’re doing just that—harnessing the universal language of music to create moments of connection, joy, and reflection for individuals living with dementia and their care partners.
Music is more than entertainment—it’s a powerful ally for brain health. Studies have shown that music stimulates multiple areas of the brain at once, supporting cognition, memory, mood regulation, and even motor coordination. From the rhythmic sound of a mother’s heartbeat—the very first music we ever hear—to the songs that shape our identity throughout life, music strengthens neural pathways, reinforces emotional connections, and enhances quality of life. And in the face of cognitive change, it becomes an extraordinary tool for communication and connection.
That’s the heartbeat of Connect2Music. Across all stages of the dementia journey, our music programs provide comfort, stimulation, and meaningful engagement that support both emotional and cognitive health. Here are just a few ways we’re bringing that mission to life:
- With Music in Mind is a bilingual workshop series where individuals living with dementia and their caregivers come together to share music in community. Our version at the Queens Botanical Gardens, specifically designed for Chinese-speaking families, celebrates both traditional and modern Chinese music while honoring cultural heritage and intergenerational relationships. These sessions offer a culturally affirming space that also supports emotional expression and cognitive stimulation.
- Musical Segue, a virtual improvisation- based program, invites participants into a space where rhythm and melody unlock stories and memories—especially when words fall short. The musical flow helps reduce anxiety, increase focus, and support verbal expression, making it a key tool for maintaining communication skills in early and moderate stages of dementia.
- Our most recent eight-week singing group, Memory Makers Studio, led by singer-songwriter Beth Styles, culminated in a heartfelt recording of her song “Life is ” Singing in a group not only fosters connection but also boosts mood, supports breath control, and engages both hemispheres of the brain—making it one of the most holistic wellness activities available.
The beauty of Connect2Music is that this is just the beginning. We’re building a future where every individual facing memory loss has a song, a rhythm, a melody that keeps them grounded—not just in their memories, but in their identity and in the relationships that matter most.
Because when it comes to connection, healing, and dignity—music is the key, and CaringKind is committed to ensuring every family has access to the compassionate, expert support they deserve—while promoting the brain health and well-being of those we serve.
Learn more about our Connect2Music programs as we grow!
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