The Beat of the Drums

Drums reflect the beat of our hearts. Drums draw us in. Drums encourage us to move. Drums create a community.

More and more, researchers and programs around the world are finding that drums have a positive effect on those individuals experiencing dementia.

Drumming immediately creates a sense of community, allowing individuals to respond to one another, to participate in a predictable rhythmic activity together, and to experience the joy that making music brings. It encourages those who have lost some of their executive power to make choices, to manipulate an instrument, and to affect a connection between their action and the sound that results. Moreover, drumming is a joyful activity for those with dementia.

Thanks to generous grants from the St. Croix Electric Co-Op and the Social Justice Committee of St. Bridget's Catholic Church of River Falls, Among Friends was able to purchase a number of new percussion instruments, including bongos, turbanos, and a variety of shakers, tambourines, drumsticks, and other sound makers that are easy to access and play.

With the help of Brickhouse Music owner Tommy Bentz (left), Among Friends Program Coordinator Sarah Schaffner, Board of Director member Jane Harred, and Music Coordinator Martha TerMaat chose instruments that our program participants would be drawn to and able to play with the most ease. One of our participants was a drummer in high school and has rediscovered some of her forgotten drumming skills. Others have tried out a variety of drums for the first time. Everyone--no matter what their skill level or ability--is able to shake or tap or strike something to contribute to the joyful music that results.

Among Friends is a community-based dementia respite program for individuals experiencing memory loss and their caregivers supported primarily by generous grants from philanthropic organizations, churches, individuals, and grants. Without such financial support, we would not be able to provide such enriching activities such as our drumming program. Thank you to all of our contributors.

If you would like to support our program, you can send a check to 110 N. 3rd St., River Falls, WI 54022 or go to https://firstchurchrf.org/give and choose Among Friends on the dropdown menu.

If you have a family member experiencing memory loss and would like to visit or learn more about our program, fill in the Contact Us form, and someone will promptly get in touch with you.