Music Therapy Takes Off Thanks to Cairns Lions Club Ladies Auxiliary

Cairns Lions Club Ladies Auxiliary, which has been a great supporter of aged care in the town over the decades, has found a way to support residents living at Mercy Place Cairns (Bethlehem) one last time.

In finalising its assets, the former President, Liz Rex, and treasurer, Narelle Hanrahan, have endorsed up to a $1000 grant to the local not-for-profit aged care home which will be used to purchase a number of instruments for its new music therapy program.

Wyanita Christensen, Lifestyle Coordinator, explains that the donation will be used to purchase seven specialised steel drums, which will help to launch a drumming circle with residents.

“The drums are not like rock band drums, they sound like Tibetan singing bowls and they are truly amazing,” she says.

“We are very thankful to Liz and Narelle for offering such a generous donation and for thinking of us as they sadly disband the Lions Club. The magic of music is able to provide important therapy for our residents, particularly those living with dementia and other related conditions, and we cannot wait to get this initiative off the ground.”

Mercy Place Cairns (Bethlehem) General Manager Precinct, Zubair Coovadia, said the therapeutic effect of music for seniors couldn’t be overstated.

“Generally speaking, music is an incredible trigger for emotions and memories from our past to emerge, and we delighted to have received support from Lions one final time to provide an uplifting and positive experience for our residents,” he says.

“The introduction of the program is set to have an extremely positive influence on our residents; this initiative is not about musical talent but being part of a group with a common purpose, which can greatly increase feelings of joy, wellbeing and also a sense of belonging.”

Click here to find out more about Mercy Health