Musical entertainment is a significant component of programming at Ontario nursing homes. Caressant Care Lindsay's activity director, Chris Ormiston, is particularly excited about an upcoming musical event. The 30-member Ontario Provincial Police chorus will perform for residents and family members at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15 at the Lindsay long-term care home.

Chris says it took her several months to organize the event after a family member who saw police chorus perform made the recommendation. The activity director says music draws a big crowd at Caressant Care
Lindsay and residents are anticipating this particular event.

"Now matter how impaired physically or mentally (residents are) they can still relate to the music," says Chris.

"A lot of times they can remember the songs. They're inbred in them." Chris says music can be beneficial to people who have had strokes. While sometimes a person's speech is impaired, it may not have impacted the ability to sing. Music is participatory whether residents tap their feet or sing alound. "I think that's the appeal of music," says Chris.

"Plus it's a generation that loved to dance." Some residents occasionally get up and do the waltz. "They might dance in one spot but that's OK."

Chris expects about 45 residents to attend the evening concert. "We're kind of excited about it."

Caressant Care Lindsay a 124-bed nursing home and 90-bed retirement home. It is located on Mary Street

West. Visit the website, for more information about the home.