Music Therapy at Northgate House
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In 2024, we’ve had the honour of running a pilot music therapy programme for the residents and team at the Older Persons Mental Health Service (OPMHS) at Northgate House. The programme, which concluded in mid-October, has left a musical mark on the residents, staff, and families involved. We’re delighted to have handed the reins over to Jess Archbold, the newly appointed Registered Music Therapist, who will continue the vital work we started.
We are deeply grateful to the entire team at Northgate House, especially Nurse Unit Manager Cindy MacDonald, for their exceptional support and collaboration. Their dedication to the programme helped us deliver music therapy sessions that made a difference to those living with dementia and their carers.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme was how personalised the sessions were. Residents and their families chose familiar songs, which formed the core of the weekly music therapy sessions. This personalisation helped ensure the sessions were not only engaging, but also meaningful to everyone involved.
Nurse Unit Manager Cindy McDonald, Luke Dowsett RMT, Jess Archbold RMT and Natalie Oliveri RMT
During the programme, we saw some incredible results. Residents began to stay for the entire duration of the sessions, having become more familiar and comfortable with the routine. Many demonstrated a calmer, more relaxed demeanour during the sessions, and some even engaged in more verbal communication. This shift didn’t only impact the residents – staff and family members also joined in, creating a strong sense of community and connection.
RMT Luke Dowsett, a new graduate working under the supervision of RMT Natalie Oliveri, played an instrumental role in making the sessions so successful. His ability to select songs that resonated with the residents – from Elvis’s “Jailhouse Rock” to traditional favourites like “Loch Lomond” – ensured each session was both meaningful and engaging. The connection between Luke and the residents and staff was evident, and it was heartening to see the residents enjoying themselves so much.
The success of the pilot programme has reinforced music therapy as a valuable tool in supporting people living with dementia. As Jess takes over, we are confident the programme will continue to grow, and we look forward to seeing the ongoing positive impact it will have on Northgate House’s residents, staff, and families.
It has been a privilege to be part of such an enriching experience, and we are proud to have played a role in making a difference to the lives of those at Northgate House.
Written by
Natalie Oliveri, Director at Creative Therapy Adelaide
Natalie, the singing superhero, uses her magical music powers as a Registered Music Therapist to create harmonious homes and confident kiddos while fighting the evil forces of monotony!
