December 19, 2024
Christmas and Hanukkah came early this year to the residents and loving staff of 305 West End Assisted Living & Memory Care. On December 19th, Sing For Your Seniors volunteers arrived all decked in holiday colors and brought the music of Barbra Streisand, George Michael, Fats Waller and Patsy Cline, mixed with beloved holiday classics.
Live music is an important event on the calendars of homes like 305 West End Assisted Living & Memory Care- but a visit from members of SFYS more than the music. Lianne integrated the name of a gentleman in the audience into the lyrics of a few songs - which inspired him to share winks and waves throughout the visit. Melanie's voice - singing "People" - calmed a woman who was a bit scared. As she grew calmer, she quietly mouthed every single word. A caregiver enthusiastically sang full-voice with Erica on "Crazy" and expressed thanks for the invitation to sing.
Sarah Ellis sang about Christmas clichés joined by a puppet of Santa Claus, puppeted by staff member Aaron. Colleen made several seniors giggle as she made fun of herself with the song "Nobody Does It Like Me." The session ended with dancing to "Last Christmas" and a sing-along to "White Christmas." The room was filled with voices, clapping and a surprise visit from the Grinch himself (again performed by Aaron)!
Thank you to everyone at 305 West End for being a part of our family, and to Aaron at West End who generously added spontaneous holiday cheer.