Together in Song Singing Groups
Helping people to remember, without anxiety, through singing.
What we do
Songs, chat, community, belonging
We sing with people in care homes, often with late stage dementia, people for whom coming out into the community to join other groups is no longer an option.
We set up singing groups with volunteers who are local to a particular care home, not only taking music into the home but also, reminding a sometimes isolated section of our community, that they are not forgotten.
We go as visitors and over time build up a relationship with both the residents and the care home.
How we do it
‘with’ not ‘to’
Many wonderful people go into care homes and perform for residents. What we do is slightly different. We sing ‘with’ residents, not ‘to’ them.
We sing low and slow, navigating memory or hearing impairment, allowing them to participate to the fullness of their abilities, and to get the maximum benefit from the sessions.
We sing the songs that the residents know and love, and welcome their song suggestions, building up, over time, a collection of favourites that is meaningful to each particular group – part of the fun is working out what these are!
Why singing?
Inclusion, health, purpose
Group singing provides an opportunity for residents to interact with others and to express themselves. The bond of singing together may help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Singing is not only enjoyable, it is also good for health, helping to improve posture and breathing.
It gives residents a sense of community and engagement. Familiar songs help residents reconnect with their younger selves and their memories.
For some, the words come flooding back. For some the songs stimulate memories and emotions. For some the songs bring energy to the group, with members becoming more alert, singing, clapping, conducting, laughing or dancing to the music.
Many thanks to Mindsong who were singing and entertaining. As usual they did so with care, compassion and an understanding of our dementia residents’ needs. It’s always a full house when Mindsong are here.