Chance for more people affected by dementia in Cornwall to experience the joy of singing
The Alzheimer's Society wants more people to benefit from their Singing for the Brain service
Last updated 2nd Nov 2022
The Alzheimer's Society wants more people affected by dementia in Cornwall to experience the joy of singing.
Their popular Singing for the Brain service is built around familiar and new songs, with fun vocal warm-ups.
There are already more than 250 Alzheimer’s Society and delivery partner-run groups in the UK - including 32 Singing for the Brain groups set up across the South West - but the charity wants more people in the Duchy to benefit.
In Truro, Singing Leader Janice Edgerton knows the benefits music has at the local Singing for the Brain session: "People are quite excited and eager to join in. There is connection, a sense of relaxation and togetherness for those living with dementia and their carers or partners. Some songs evoke memories for people they then share with the group which is always a lovely moment.
"Sometimes there are giggles and laughter and after we’ve finished a song, someone keeps on singing or whistling having an impromptu solo, which is absolutely lovely and they always get a round of applause!
"Music and singing have incredible health benefits. For people with dementia, it helps to relax and be in the moment and creates a sense of comfort. There is no confusion, just happily singing a song. It stimulates the brain as it reminds people of a time or a place as it’s so strongly attached to a feeling – it takes them straight there.
"As soon as the music starts or they hear the first words, their brain instantly recognises the song so the words and tune just come flooding out. There are emotive moments all the time which has brought tears to my eyes!
"We always allow time for the social side too, chatting over cups of tea. It’s about creating a safe, friendly environment for the group to enjoy singing together, make friends, and have a good time!"
Truro’s Singing for the Brain group has recently celebrated its 11th anniversary and is welcoming new referrals and volunteers to their fortnightly session at All Saints Church Highertown (every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month).
There are more than 10,060 people estimated to be living with dementia in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Singing for the Brain helps to reduce social isolation, improve quality of life, wellbeing and mood.
Derek Dodd, Alzheimer’s Society Area Manager in Cornwall, said: "Music memory is often retained when other memories are lost. Singing for the Brain can help people, even in advanced stages of dementia, to tap into long-term memories linked to music and song – for some, this can mean they can communicate through singing when no longer able to do so through speech.
"We are changing the way we provide support for people affected by dementia in the community so we can reach more people through delivery partners. We want more people to benefit from our popular Singing for the Brain service.
"Too many face dementia alone. We want everyone affected by dementia to know that whoever you are, whatever you’re going through, you can turn to Alzheimer’s Society for practical advice, emotional support and guidance for the best next step."
To find out more, join a group or to register your interest to become a Singing for the Brain delivery partner, visit alzheimers.org.uk/singingforthebrain.