Iain Stewart MP witnessed first hand how music can have a positive impact on people living with dementia when he joined an Alzheimer’s Society Singing for the Brain® group in Loughton, Milton Keynes this week.
As well as seeing how singing can benefit people living with dementia, Iain met regular members and their carers, to find out more about them and their condition.
Singing for the Brain® is a service provided by the Alzheimer’s Society which is enjoyed by people living with dementia and their carers. The programme promotes communication through singing which can help with articulation, concentration, focus and motivation.
The groups are relaxed and fun with specially trained facilitators delivering a varied programme of vocal warm-up exercises, percussion and a wide selection of well-known songs.
Iain, who is also an Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friend, said: “I was delighted to meet with members of this fantastic group – it’s very uplifting and easy to see just how important music, and singing in particular, is to those people living with dementia.”
In addition, Iain was able to meet Alan Everett and his son-in-law, Alan Marchbank; Alan was celebrating his 90th birthday and was serenaded by everyone in the group. ”Alan really enjoys coming to Singing for the Brain and it’s brought out the singer in him; he never sang before with the family – he’s found his voice” said his son-in-law.
Co-leader Sue Binnie said: “Singing for the Brain in Milton Keynes has proved very popular with all our members. The sessions help people living with dementia to communicate, improving their mood and leaving them feeling good about themselves. We have two active groups meeting on alternate Mondays and we’re happy to welcome new people at any time.”
With more than 2,000 people living with dementia in Milton Keynes alone, the services provided locally by the Alzheimer’s Society, including Singing for the Brain®, are vital for them and their carers.
To find out about attending Singing for the Brain and other Alzheimer’s Society services in the area contact Vicky Sargent or Dee Cope on 01908 232612 or click here
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