What is B Sharp Arts Engagement?
B Sharp is a life enrichment and research program for people with dementia and their care partners who wish to attend the Fort Collins Symphony and participate in a CSU study examining the sense of connection, mood, and cognition related to experiencing the symphony.
B Sharp was launched in 2015 to engage people with dementia and their caregivers in an immersive community musical experience that is hoped will provide therapeutic benefit.
In this program, participants received season tickets, enjoyed a public musical event, attended receptions with fellow community members, and participated in a variety of research activities. Since the program was launched, over 60 couples have enrolled in B Sharp and related arts engagement programs.
The aim of the program is to reduce cognitive decline and improve memory, mood and attention among people with dementia. In addition, it was designed to help caregivers find the opportunity to give and receive support in a regular social setting and have the opportunity to engage in a community event where they feel it is safe to bring a person with dementia. Attending dementia-friendly community events helped care partners feel connected to their loved one, other care partners, and enjoy a night out.
Interested in participating or learning more? Contact Phoebe Hawley.
Interested in some of our research findings?
Quotes from Participants
“I was blown away because my husband enjoyed it so much and didn’t need to use his walker for assistance on his way out of the building. He just walked right out! The music energized him. His voice carries more life in it … I absolutely think he remembers the concert longer than other events and things we do. He can remember when the concert was and knows when concerts will be. That is something that is engrained in his mind. These concerts are very fundamental and foundational for him.”