Et cetera : What We're Watching: Alive Inside

I recently watched the 2014 documentary 'Alive Inside' with the hopes of gleaning some insight into how to incorporate music into our library's Memory Cafe. The film follows one man over the course of three years as he brings customized music playlists to nursing home residents as a form of music therapy. He found that by playing music from their youth, the residents were able to access memories, feelings, and joy unlike anything they had experienced in years. Viewers get to see first-hand as many remarkable individuals light up when they recognize favorite songs. I highly recommend this documentary to anyone whose life is impacted by dementia, including healthcare providers and caregivers. Be sure to have a box of tissues nearby.

The film received the Audience Award at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, and we have it available on DVD to checkout at the Vinton Public Library.

Happy viewing!

Kelly Henkle, Library Director