Drum Workshops for the Elderly

Numerous recent studies strongly indicate that participation in activities such as ensemble drumming diminish the effects of senile dementia, and may even prevent the onset of such disorders. Actual physical development of nerve pathways around the plaques and tangles found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients have been clinically observed in seniors who actively learn new skills.

The Drum Workshop provides a range of programs for senior citizens and is currently involved in a base line study and curriculum-generating project to more thoroughly explore the benefits of ensemble drumming for people with Parkinson’s disease, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s.

The physical exercise is extremely beneficial, especially to the upper body. The ensemble also provides an opportunity for social interaction. Most importantly, however, is our strong belief that by challenging participants to learn and play new, exciting, unfamiliar music, we are helping to create new pathways for neuro-muscular function. Participants report improvement in general coordination, walking, speaking, sleeping, and thought process, and experience a boost in self-esteem and overall confidence.