The Virtual Music Therapy Visits Program was created to assist residents living in long-term care to connect virtually with friends and family members through the power of music and song as facilitated by a Certified Music Therapist. This guide is built on the Program and offers a resource for professionals who support older adults living in long-term care settings, including recreation and activity team members, recreation coordinators, and music therapists who wish to offer Virtual Music Therapy Visiting opportunities to their residents.

Physical distancing and isolation measures implemented during COVID-19 in LTC homes have limited social interaction and recreation opportunities for residents. It is our hope that this program – developed during a global emergency to address the needs of residents to continue connecting with their family members and friends in a safe and enjoyable way – will be used beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.

Being able to connect at a distance through Zoom provides residents with the opportunity to interact and engage with those they may not get to see as often due to geographical separation, medical conditions, caregiving responsibilities, and other reasons that may make it difficult for these individuals to visit the LTC home.

During each session, a certified music therapist leads the resident and their friends and family members in various music therapy techniques such as singing songs and moving to music, gently facilitating reminiscence and music-making for the participants. The music therapy program promotes the stimulation of multiple domains of well-being (e.g., social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual) in residents and those joining them in the sessions.

Date created: September 8, 2022