Seniors at Indiana health care facility form hand-bell choir

Published: 2003-12-29

SAN PIERRE, Ind. (CNS) -- There's something drawing residents and staff to the activities room at the Holy Cross Care Center in San Pierre. It's the sound of bells -- performed by residents of the long-term health care facility operated by the Sisters of the Holy Cross. For a little more than a year, residents have practiced on hand bells and now perform for their peers and the public. Under the direction of Barb Eckert, activities director at the center, 15 residents practice once a week for "gigs" on holidays or other special occasions. Actually, rehearsals are something of a special event at the center, as staff members and other residents will stop by when they hear the bells. Choir members know someone is listening because of the applause that follows each musical number. Among those taking a peek recently was Lynette Altman, case manager of the facility. "Music has great therapeutic value," said Altman. "We can all relate to music, and the ability to make music is a real contribution."

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