By Steve Cooke
For some time, it has been believed that singing may have benefits for those with Alzheimer’s. A study, back in 2004, presented at a meeting of the Society for Neuroscience in San Diego, found that singing as part of a group led to improvements in thinking and memory skills and boosted mood in those with dementia.
A growing body of research suggests that music — like art and other creative forms of therapy — can stir emotions and memories, enhance enjoyment and self-esteem, and enrich the lives of people with dementia.
The power of music, especially singing, to unlock memories and kickstart the grey matter is an increasingly key feature of dementia care. It seems to reach parts of the damaged brain in ways other forms of communication cannot.
'We tend to remain contactable as musical beings on some level right up to the very end of life,' says Professor Paul Robertson, a concert violinist and academic who has made a study of music in dementia care.
The Alzheimer’s Society’s Singing for the Brain brings people affected by dementia together to sing a variety of songs they know and love, in a fun and friendly environment. They also do vocal exercises that help improve brain activity and wellbeing.
Alzheimer’s Society Rochdale host, Singing for the Brain fortnightly on Thursdays at Castleton Community Centre.
The first session after the Christmas break is on Thursday 13th January 2022 at 10.30am and is designed to help people living with dementia and their family carers through a shared social experience of music and singing.
To be eligible to attend people must have had a diagnosis of dementia or MCI (mild cognitive impairment). ‘This is not intended as a singing group for people who are not living with dementia in their family.’
The group is hosted by skilled, compassionate and experience group leaders and volunteers. You don't need to be a good singer to join in and benefit just go along for fun vocal warm-ups and sing a wide variety of familiar and new songs in a supported environment
An opportunity to meet new people in a friendly, fun, and social environment.
People need to book their place in advance to maintain Covid-19 safety.
They also offer online sessions as an alternative.
Phone Ali Roberts on 07809 349 671 or email alison.roberts@alzheimers.org.uk
Free
Thursday 13 January 2022, 10.30am - 12noon
Castleton Community Centre, 604 Manchester Road, Castleton OL11 3AF
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