Music in Adult Day Programs

Develop leadership skills in advocating for music in care both within your team and your community

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Music in Adult Day Programs

Focus: In this course you will explore how music is a resource and tool that can be used by anyone working in care. Music does not belong to one person; it belongs to everyone and empowering others to use music intentionally improves quality of life. This course will explore leadership and advocacy skills needed to create a vibrant music care program using a framework that was developed through Alzheimer Society Peel under the direction of music therapist, Ruth Watkiss.

Value: Music does not belong to one person; it belongs to everyone and empowering others to use music intentionally improves quality of life. Through the music program at Alzheimer Society of Peel clients have experienced;

  • Greater sense of engagement in programs
  • Feelings of joy
  • Improved sense of confidence
  • Feeling of belonging

Target audience: Administrators, care partners, recreation therapists, music therapists, family members, educators, community musicians

Learning outcomes:

  • Develop leadership skills in advocating for music in care both within your team and your community;
  • Create your own music resources for the specific requirements of the individuals you are working with;
  • Be able to identify quality music programs and resources;
  • Create personalized playlists for clients to utilize when needed;
  • Realize the role music plays in the sound environment;
  • Recognize the impact music can have on your clients and on your community


Your Instructor


Ruth Watkiss, Cert Music Therapist
Ruth Watkiss, Cert Music Therapist

Ruth Watkiss, Certified Music Therapist, has dedicated her career to empowering individuals living with dementia through music. Over the last 18 years, she has pioneered a thriving music community at the Alzheimer Society Peel through collaboration with community partners and a music committee. Ruth recently led four day programs and respite home at the Alzheimer Society Peel to be the first Gold Certified Music Care Organization through Room 217.

Improving the Sound Environment within Client Services at the Alzheimer Society Peel

Learn about the improvements the Alzheimer Society Peel made to their client service facilities through four sub goals and a commitment to change See the results of their research and the impact of their work with their adult day programs.

Ruth Watkiss (she/her) | Certified Music Therapist
Alzheimer Society Peel | 385 Brunel Road | Mississauga, ON | L4Z 1Z5
905-278-3667 ext. 353 | Cell: 437-755-4853
[email protected] | www.alzheimerpeel.com


Course Curriculum


  Music in Adult Day Programs
Available in days
days after you enroll

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.

Get started now!