Public libraries offer music to Islanders with memory loss

MP3 players available to borrow

“Music is an incredible form of therapy which can help stimulate our brains and increase overall well-being.

Brad Trivers Education and Lifelong Learning minister

P.E.I. residents can now borrow MP3 players from public libraries for a loved one living with memory loss to help activate their memories through music.

The new Music and Memory Program provides access to MP3 players that can be loaded with personalized playlists.

The goal is to help people living with memory loss or a physical condition reconnect with loved ones and the world around them through music memories and to improve their quality of life.

Music and Memory is a collaborative initiative between the P.E.I. Seniors’ Secretariat, the Sunlife Musical Lending Library program, the Friends of the Rotary Regional Library and the Rotary Club of Montague and eastern P.E.I.

To sign up for the program, visit the PEI Public Library Service webpage.

Education and Lifelong Learning Minister Brad Trivers says living through this global pandemic has been a long and difficult process for all Islanders, especially the most vulnerable populations and their families.

“Music is an incredible form of therapy which can help stimulate our brains and increase overall well-being. I am proud of our public libraries who continue to find creative ways to support our communities through the challenges of COVID-19.”

This new service through the P.E.I. Public Libraries will be beneficial for Island seniors struggling with memory loss, says Social Development and Housing Minister Ernie Hudson, who is also the minister responsible for seniors.