Rhythms of Life Drum Circle Toolkit

About the Project  

The Brenda Strafford Foundation’s Rhythms of Life (RoL) Drum Circle Toolkit is designed to help continuing care facilities and community organizations implement drum circles into their recreation programming. BSF has implemented RoL Drum Circles at all five of our continuing care sites, and they have been positively received by both residents and families, fostering community, inclusion, and promoting overall well-being.  

Using our experience from the Rhythms of Life drumming program, we developed a toolkit to help other assisted living and long-term care homes, as well as other community partners and organizations, implement this program into their Therapeutic Recreation programs. By guiding the start-up process, the program can be offered and utilized effectively on a large scale quicker, and with less growing pains, to bring a sense of community and therapeutic benefits not only to BSF, but to care facilities in our communities and beyond. 

Impact of the Project 

Our drum circles have become a highlight for participants across BSF’s communities, engaging people of all ages and abilities. Since their introduction to our programming in 2020, they’ve offered physical, cognitive, and social benefits to participants. By encouraging self-expression, connection, and rhythmic unity, these Drum Circles foster a sense of belonging, enhancing the quality of life for our residents. 

“I like drumming. Drum circles help me relax and I like listening to the sounds. There’s a lot of company, and we all work together.”
  - BSF Resident 

“A drum circle hits a lot of domains. There’s a social aspect, there’s an emotional aspect, and a spritual aspect. Without communicating with words, you’re actually communicating with your drums among the group.”
  - Nicole B, Life Enrichment Manager at Cambridge Manor