Striking a Chord in Senior Living: A Story of Music & Life Enrichment
Adam Roes’ journey in senior care began almost a decade ago, when he was a college student in Northern New York, studying for a bachelor’s degree in music therapy. As a student music therapist, Adam first encountered the profound impact of music on individuals’ well-being when working with seniors, particularly in clinical settings alongside physical therapists and speech and language pathologists.
He was amazed by the progress his clients made, especially those with Parkinson’s disease and aphasia from strokes. The way music helped improve their gait and communication goals was eye-opening, solidifying his belief in the effectiveness of music therapy.
A lifelong passion for music
Adam’s passion for music has always been a cornerstone of his life. Over the years, he has studied violin, piano, trumpet, guitar, percussion, ukulele, and other instruments, but singing has always been and will always be his favorite. This deep connection to music has shaped his approach to both therapy and life enrichment, allowing him to connect with residents through the universal language of song.
Deepening his career in music therapy
After graduation, Adam moved to Portland, Oregon, to further his career as an intern music therapist with Earthtones Northwest. During his 7-month internship, Adam deepened his understanding of music’s therapeutic potential and became a board-certified music therapist. He then worked in adult care homes and community-based settings, including memory care and assisted living, for several years. His work was deeply rewarding, but he yearned for more — a deeper connection, expanded community, and the ability to grow alongside the residents.
From music therapy to life enrichment
It was a chance encounter with a life enrichment director during one of his music therapy sessions in assisted living that changed the course of his career. Encouraged to apply for a life enrichment coordinator position, Adam embraced the opportunity. This role allowed him to expand beyond music, combining his passion for creative expression with his desire to build deeper, more meaningful relationships with the residents. He discovered that life enrichment work was more than just organizing activities — it was about creating an environment where hobbies, interests, and talents could be shared and celebrated.
Just two days into his new role, the pandemic hit, bringing the world to a standstill. He adapted the Life Enrichment Program to focus on providing individualized activity supplies to residents and was even seen “delivering” door-to-door musical performances for up to 70 residents in a day. Over the next five years, he honed his skills in independent living, assisted living, and memory care, eventually stepping into his current role as the Life Enrichment Director at Gilman Grove assisted living in Oregon City.
In this role, Adam thrives on directly impacting residents’ lives through activities and events that combine his clinical music therapy background with creative and diverse enrichment opportunities. He’s learned that each day presents new opportunities to learn, grow, and connect — whether it’s through a shared hobby or helping residents achieve their personal goals.
Driving connection and belonging in senior living
Adam’s journey has also led him to a new chapter with Areté Living (Gilman Grove’s management organization), where he is excited to join the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Program as a member of the People Pillar. These initiatives allow him to highlight the diversity within the residents and team, aligning with his passion for fostering an inclusive and vibrant community. Adam is grateful for the opportunity to not only share his expertise but to continue learning and expanding his role in life enrichment, all while helping residents live fuller, more engaged lives.