PATHWAY’S DRUMMING AND VIBRATION CIRCLES NAMED AMONG 2007’S MOST INNOVATIVE ACTIVE AGING PROGRAMS

ICAA Recognizes Creative, High-Quality
Approaches to Older-Adult Wellness

Des Plaines, IL . . . Ask any teenager...they know that sharing a good beat with a group of friends can make you feel better. But it wasn’t a garage band for teens, rather a Drumming and Vibration Circle for senior citizens that caught the eye (and ear) of the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), an association that supports professionals who develop wellness and fitness facilities and services for age 50-plus adults. At nine Pathway Senior Living communities throughout Chicagoland, older adults come together, under the direction of a music therapist, and play drums and other ancient, exotic instruments to create pulsating and enchanting beats.

This unique and popular Pathway wellness program has just received the 2007 Industry Innovator Award from the ICAA.

The inspiration for the program comes from Rita Lopienski, the registered music therapist who leads the circle and is a certified activity director and Pathway’s regional director of community life.

"Older adults have a need to be with others but not always in a traditional setting," says Lopienski. "Those with physical, visual or speech impairments, for example, may find traditional social outlets threatening. The Drumming and Vibration Circle offers residents non-threatening and fun opportunities to socialize."

Drumming and Vibration Circle participants explore their creative sides and exercise self-expression using a variety of rhythm instruments from Africa, Asia, South American and the Caribbean. Lopienski leads groups in playing drums, singing bowls, gongs, cymbals, bells and chimes, focusing on rhythm and vibrations as tools to enhance well-being and community. "Drumming is a sacred technology that connects us with the deeper rhythms of life," Lopienski says. "The drumbeat echoes the heartbeat, connecting us to our deeper selves. A Drumming and Vibration Circle focuses on rhythm as a tool for health and healing, for building a sense of community and relieving stress."

The annual ICAA awards honor excellence and creativity in the health and wellness field. The award-winning offerings target any or all of the six dimensions of wellness—emotional, vocational, physical, spiritual, intellectual and social. "Pathway Senior Living provides an inspiring example for everyone striving to support healthy, vibrant living for adults ages 50 and older," says Colin Milner, ICAA founder and CEO. "Pathway offers an innovative, high-quality approach to wellness—one that promotes health, well-being and quality of life for older adults and helps individuals stay independent."

For more information on Pathway’s Drumming and Vibration Circle, please call 847-635-4002.