Every Wednesday, music, singing, and laughter can be heard lilting throughout this long-term care home, located in Jasper, Ontario.

It's all part of their music therapy program, and it's having a positive effect on the health and happiness of the residents.

"It's made a phenomenal difference. The residents love it. They look forward to it; they're always asking about it," says Kathy Barr, life enrichment co-ordinator. "It's been found that music, more than almost anything else, adds pleasure to the lives of seniors - and we've definitely found that to be true."

Once a week for an hour, a music therapy program facilitator, Joyce Lindsay, comes in to provide musical experiences for residents, in both individual and group settings. She sings, plays the guitar and other instruments, and encourages the residents to participate.

A half-hour is spent one-on-one with residents in their rooms, and the other half-hour consists of a group musical session in the lobby.

Music has many therapeutic aspects for residents with and without cognitive challenges, explains Kathy. Not only does it make residents happy, but it also increases relaxation and alertness and decreases agitation.

"You can see their response. Even if they can't talk, you can tell they're enjoying it - they tap their feet, they clap their hands, they smile."

Music also triggers memories, which in itself is therapeutic, adds Kathy. Just ask resident Winnie Olesuk, who looks forward to hearing Joyce sing - especially Hank Williams songs. Winnie even sings along.

"I love Hank Williams. I saw his shows three times," she says. "His songs remind me of happy times at home and going to the cinema."

The music therapy program was launched in April 2002, with annual financial support from the local Alzheimer Society. The funds support the cost of the program facilitator, and also went toward the purchase of music video sing-a-longs, CDs, and rhythm instruments such as tamborines and jingle bells.

Joyce is not an "official" music therapist (it requires specific education and accreditation), but she has extensive experience providing musical experiences for residents in long-term care homes, says Kathy.

"We were lucky to get her. She's absolutely superb," says Kathy.