Singing For The Elderly During Quarantine

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on communities across the globe from students to virus victims. However, there is another group being deeply impacted by quarantine isolation but often overlooked: elderly residents of assisted living facilities. These seniors are prohibited from seeing their loved ones during quarantine restrictions to limit compromises to their health, as well as to restrain further spread of the illness among facility employees. Although there are video chat platforms available for residents to stay in touch with their families, it just doesn't fulfill the gratification of personal physical interaction. 

In an effort to alleviate the stresses felt by these residents, a nonprofit organization has arisen from Broward County, Florida to uplift spirits with the powerful and universal language of music. Singing For Seniors is an organization that rallies musicians of all genres and of all instrumentation to share their passions for a good cause. This group holds virtual performance sessions for these residents of assisted living facilities over the Zoom video chat platform. The musical acts vary widely from elementary students serenading with viola pieces to highschoolers belting uplifting tunes. Carynna Joseph, an avid member of the organization, recalls participating in the first session with the Angel House Assisted Living facility, “This experience will be one I’ll never forget! Being able to see how much the elderly enjoyed our performances warmed my heart.” 

This organization proves the timeless quote by Plato: “Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul.” It’s important to acknowledge the mental impacts upon those who may not be infected by the virus but still impressed by its repercussions. Even through a digital screen, we can work towards healing the hearts of those affected by the isolation of quarantine, one note at a time. 
​
Written By Sophia Hai

Visit the Singing For Seniors official website for more information www.singingforseniors.us