Kiel: Philharmonie concert offers respite for dementia patients & families

Kiel, Germany – A special concert series designed to provide a soothing and engaging experience for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers is gaining recognition for its positive impact. Musical experiences can significantly improve quality of life for those affected by neurodegenerative diseases, and initiatives like this highlight the growing understanding of music’s therapeutic benefits.

The Kiel Philharmonic’s “Phil Harmonie” project will be offered again on Wednesday, March 11, at 6 p.m. In the Petruskirche Kiel-Wik, and is available free of charge. The concert aims to create a welcoming and comforting atmosphere for people experiencing the challenges of dementia.

Heinz Jansen, 87, a long-time advocate for dementia care, expressed his enthusiasm for the event. He co-founded the Alzheimer’s Society in Kiel 30 years ago and served as its volunteer chairman. His personal connection to the disease – his father also lived with dementia – fueled his dedication to improving support for those affected. “Musical memories are of lasting value,” Jansen said, adding that he is particularly excited about the concert.

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Jansen’s wife, Heike Jansen, 84, noted that they have been navigating a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease in their family for eleven years, and that the condition can sometimes have a genetic component. The couple recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

A former engineer with a lifelong love of orchestral music and opera, Jansen particularly enjoys the works of Bach, Mendelssohn, Schubert, and Beethoven – especially Beethoven’s “Pastoral” symphony. He and his wife recommend the Phil Harmonie concert as “calming – especially in a community setting.” His wife added, “My husband emphasizes that it distracts – from the illness.”

The Alzheimer’s Society Kiel e. V., in collaboration with the Arbeiterwohlfahrt (AWO) counseling center for dementia and care, is supporting the orchestral performance. The organization, which is celebrating its anniversary on March 18 at 3 p.m. At the Baukulturforum, Waisenhofstraße 3 (registration required by calling 0431 / 70 55 191), also offers lectures, crafting courses, and dance classes for those affected by dementia. “All of this is well received,” Jansen said.

Research, including a study from Monash University in Australia, suggests a link between regular music engagement and a reduced risk of developing dementia. The study found that individuals who regularly listen to or play music have a 39 percent lower risk of the condition later in life. This highlights the potential for music as a preventative measure. Music therapy is also frequently used in the treatment of dementia, as it can evoke positive memories.

• Phil Harmonie: Wed., March 11, 6 p.m., Petruskirche Kiel-Wik, Weimarer Straße. Admission is free with a ticket obtained at www.theater-kiel.de or by calling 0431/901 901.

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