Singing for the brain.

What a wonderful way to bring people together not just for people with dementia but also their carers. Even when many memories are difficult to retrieve, music is especially easy to recall. Singing allows people to express themselves, lightens everyone’s mood and is fun. Being part of one of these groups encourages socialising and thus helps relieve feelings of isolation.

Music making is pretty special neurologically, as it engages so many brain circuits, functions and perceptions. Singing itself is unique, as humans have an innate ability to produce song as a form of expression, spanning every culture in the world. Sing a song to a toddler, and chances are they will sing along with you. Despite many people claiming they can’t sing, biologically, singing is as natural to us as speaking.

Research is showing that different areas of the brain control singing compared with speaking. MRI imaging studies by Dr Reiker in Germany show that singing involves the right motor cortex, right anterior insula, and left cerebellum whereas speaking produces the opposite response pattern. This leads many scientists to think that singing could be a therapeutic option for people with speech problems. Read more…

So why not go along to one of these singing sessions, they are run by trained people who ensure that hidden in the fun are activities which encourage memory. Call Graham Darley: on 01453 791830.

Training

Positive Care Training

I mentioned this last week, the sessions will run every Thursday starting from 3 November through to 8 December, 10.00am – 12.30pm at Beeches Green Health Centre, Stroud, GL5 4BH. Help is available for replacement care and transport.

Do make contact soon to book your place. Ring Chris Cam on 01452 500885/426254.