Thanks to the generosity of Flinders Foundation supporters and a CommBank Staff Foundation Community Grant, elderly and palliative patients, as well as those undergoing rehabilitation, have been being entertained, soothed and moved by a variety of visiting musicians through a new ‘Music Matters’ program.

From the calming tones of the harp to the upbeat sounds of an acoustic duo, the strains of beautiful music drifted through the wards, bringing patients out of their rooms, and in some cases, out of their shells.

Multiple music sessions were held each week across rehabilitation, aged care and palliative care wards at Flinders Medical Centre, Noarlunga Hospital and The Repat Health Precinct.

With many patients staying for prolonged periods, staff said music brought enjoyment to patients’ days and provided a distraction and motivator for recovery.

“We’ve seen a different side of the patients – they’ve really blossomed, and the music has made them feel warmth again,” said Diversional Therapist, Karen Hamdorf based at Vita Stars at the Repat Health Precinct

Thank you for bringing this wonderful source of solace and enjoyment to patients.