Peter Hess® Sound Specialist – Dementia Care
A concept by Peter Hess, Rosemarie Bleil, Gabriele Esser, and Mathilde Tepper
This advanced training offers a wide range of possibilities for applying sound bowls and sound-based methods in eldercare—particularly for individuals living with dementia and those who are bedridden and require intensive care. These methods serve as a gentle form of sensory stimulation and are increasingly used in palliative care. They bring moments of connection, comfort, and quality of life to those affected.
From the very beginning of life, the human sense of hearing is the first to develop and is fully formed before birth. A newborn is already deeply attuned to sound. At the end of life, hearing is also one of the last senses to fade—people continue to perceive sound and music until their final moments. Sound, therefore, is a medium that deeply touches the emotions and evokes memories. Vibrations and resonances are equally familiar, and so the soothing tones of singing bowls can reach individuals even when other forms of communication no longer do.
The core principles of the Peter Hess® Sound Methods—mindfulness, appreciation, wholeness, solution- and resource-oriented approaches, and dialogical interaction—offer exactly what is needed in the fields of eldercare and dementia: approaches that preserve dignity, promote well-being, and support development even in vulnerable phases of life.
The specialized sound methods are tailored to the individual needs of each person. Changes that come with aging—such as moving into a senior care facility or dealing with age-related conditions like dementia, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and others—often result in feelings of insecurity, fear, and a deep desire for stability and reassurance. The respectful foundation of acceptance and the principle of “being allowed to be as one is” are at the heart of sound work. The simplicity of the sounds allows for immediate connection without overwhelming the individual, as it is not about cognitive processing but about listening and feeling.
Following a resource-oriented approach, the focus is not on healing, but rather on offering moments of joy through sensory experiences, bodily awareness, deep relaxation, and overall well-being. Additionally, the use of sound and singing bowls promotes autonomy and communication. This can help reduce anxiety and discomfort while fostering a sense of trust, safety, and inner peace.
The benefits of sound-based methods often extend into daily care routines. For example, individuals may become calmer, sleep more soundly, or tolerate the regular repositioning required for bedridden care in a more relaxed and comfortable manner—for both the individual and the caregivers.
You will integrate sound-based methods into your daily professional routine as a caregiver or dementia support specialist.
This offering is suitable for both group and individual applications.
As a Peter Hess® Sound Expert for Dementia, you can provide your professional sound services for:
- Senior and nursing homes, retirement residences
- Shared living communities and assisted living for the elderly
- Senior groups and adult daycare centers
- Private individuals (at home or in your own practice)
Between the seminar modules, you will gain hands-on experience and deepen your knowledge through self-study of the provided course materials.
Recognized for the qualification: Peter Hess® Sound Massage Expert in Recovery Support
The continuing education program includes the foundational seminar Sound Massage I as well as two specialized seminars. It comprises a total of 48 hours, plus additional time for self-study of course materials and practical application (transfer phase).
Costs:
Course materials (scripts): €35.00
Total program cost: €1,010.00
At the end of the training, participants will receive a certificate of completion from the Peter Hess® Institute, listing all seminars attended.
Professionals from nursing and caregiving fields are authorized upon completion of the program to use the following additional professional designation:
Peter Hess® Sound Expert for Dementia Care
Participants without formal training in a relevant profession will receive a certificate of participation confirming attendance at the seminars. They may obtain the designation
Peter Hess® Sound Expert for Dementia Care
after attending additional seminars on dementia-related topics and providing documented evidence of practical experience.
