Music Care at Gentog
Dementia is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide, robbing them of their memory, cognitive abilities, and, often, their sense of self. However, amidst the challenges posed by this condition, music emerges as a powerful and therapeutic force. The phrase "When words fail, music speaks" rings especially true for individuals with dementia, as music has the unique ability to bypass damaged areas of the brain and reach deep into the heart and soul.
Research has shown that music can significantly improve the quality of life for people with dementia. Even when verbal communication becomes difficult or impossible, music can evoke memories, emotions, and responses that words cannot. Familiar tunes from a person's past can stimulate brain activity, spark recognition, and provide comfort. For example, a person who may not recognize their family members can still recall the lyrics to a favorite song from their youth, showcasing the profound impact music has on memory and emotional well-being.
In addition to evoking memories, music care can also reduce agitation, anxiety, and depression in dementia patients. Participating in musical activities such as singing, dancing, or even simple rhythmic movements can foster social engagement, create a sense of community, and promote physical activity. Caregivers and family members can also benefit from these interactions, as they provide a meaningful and joyful way to connect with their loved ones. In essence, music serves as a bridge, linking the past with the present, and offering a light in the often-dark journey of dementia.
Impromptu Concerts!
Jam Sessions!
Karaoke!
Dance Parties!
Joe our resident Troubadour!
Joseph Konty
In 1998 Joseph started his music and art career in Eastern Oregon moving operations to Portland, OR in 2002. His father and mother personally managed their son. Since then he has an amassed body of work, studio albums, singles, live albums, tours, videos. While working with independent labels, managers, booking agencies and distribution companies throughout the U.S. and overseas. His primary markets being Portland, OR & metro, The Pacific Northwest and Denver, CO.
After graduating college in 2005 with a B.S. double major in counseling and religion and post graduate studies in 2009 in voice and music theory at Mt. Hood Community College, Joseph expanded his music further with his Father and Mother. In 2012 after years working together Joseph's father passed away from a 4 year battle with systemic scleroderma.
In 2013 with his experience and training Joseph worked with charter schools and in 2015 opened his own art school to train, educate and produce music artists after the birth of his son Isley. His first artist he produced was Josephine Relli. He was a music director at a church in Sherwood, OR and since has been working on his own albums, singles, shows and educational work in music.
In 2020 he was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. In 2025 he was later diagnosed with ADHD. We share this to show how he has overcome great odds. And, to show his humanist.
He works with artists, students, the community and seniors with dementia, Alzheimer's and memory loss at a facility in Tigard, OR called GENTOG. He also teaches at Youth Music Project in West Linn, OR. A non profit that makes music lessons accessible to all no matter their financial situation. He leads with GENTOG Community Services a dementia friendly fellowship every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at GENTOG.
He has a certification in music care from The Room 217 Foundation out of Canada, is studying further music theory through University of Edinburgh Scotland via Coursera and is a cohort member of The Sounds of US.
He still keeps all operations family with his wife Rachel and son Isley, mother Sharon and all their animals in West Linn, OR part of Portland, OR metro area.