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 The Room-to-Room program provides LTC facilities with
the services of certified Music Therapists and qualified
professional musicians who stroll from room-to-room to
lift the hearts and spirits of the very ill. Bedfast
residents often experience prolonged periods of
isolation. They are cut-off from activities and peers
within their own environment. Their confinement often
leads to a greater sense of helplessness and increased
loneliness. They become depressed and withdrawn. This
can be difficult for family members who are often unsure
about how to interact with their loved ones under such
conditions. Unfortunately, this can lead to short visits
that lack meaning for both the resident and their
visitors.
 The music the Room-to-Room program brings truly does
“break down the barriers between strangers” and provides
a natural, easy flow for conversation. Residents often
request songs that mark the peaks of their lives and
hearing this loved piece of music often leads to the
flow of meaningful conversations. When possible, artists
encourage residents to sing along, clap, tap, or
expressively participate in some form during their
performances. Residents also enjoy the opportunity to
play and learn about various musical instruments. This
is especially beneficial for the growing numbers of
residents suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. It is
also greatly appreciated by residents who have outlived
their spouse and/or their children and who have little
to no outside support.
The Room-to-Room program is blessed with the financial
support of donations made by caring individuals,
foundations, and businesses. Arts United of Fort Wayne,
the Indiana Arts Commission and the National Endowment
for the Arts also contribute to the success of this
program.
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