LOS ANGELES (KNX) – Singing and music might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of senior living facilities, but if Brian Duncan and his team at Respect and Understanding had their way, it would become a staple of maintaining mental well-being for all seniors.
That's why he's our KNX Hero of the Week! Listen here:
Brian has been using his background in music, teaching, and customer service to bring joy and healing to others ever since he began playing guitar for his grandmother years ago. He turned it into a profession when he started the nonprofit organization in 2001. He has come to believe that "music participation should become a healthcare supplement because it does what medicating can't do."
The mission at Respect and Understanding is healing through music which, to the organization, means giving seniors, who often miss out on family connection in their care centers, a way to "feel they're a part of the band."
By allowing them to sing and play along to music that is familiar to them, Brian has seen a "relaxation response" from his participants. Put another way, "mindfulness through music." The most requested songs Brian gets are classics such as; Take me out to the Ball Game, Happy Birthday, This Little Light of Mine, and Amazing Grace.
Brian's weekly music participation events have a profoundly positive impact on the Care Homes he services in Pasadena and Los Angeles, landing this jolly minstrel as KNX Hero of the week!
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