The commonly used adage of “music is medicine” has its roots based in all aspects of life – Red Home Healthcare is a gleaming example of this.
At all of our Homes, we are thoroughly blessed to have the opportunity to have live music performed in our Homes as well as regular sing-a-long and music sessions with each other.
At all of our Homes, we value all the chances we get to get up and dance. At Farndon Walk, we have special activity days which promote our residents to dance and sing with each other. Not only is this good for getting about and staying active, it helps to build crucial relationships between the residents. Staying positive and maintaining our well-being is at the centre of being able to provide the high level of care we deliver at each Home. Not only does music enable this, it also allows carers to learn more about the residents and tailor future activities in the Homes.
Two much anticipated and loved visitors at Red Court are Sue and Jim. This duet come in and put on an amazing show to entertain and serenade the residents. Singing some classics that our residents love to join in with – they know which songs they always want. When they arrive, it is clear the positive effect they have on everyone in the home. The bring the party with them and leave the Home full of joy and energy.
“It is always a great pleasure for Jim and myself to be invited to entertain your lovely residents at Red Court Care Home. You all make us so very welcome and we look forward to seeing you all again very soon.” – Susan Tinkler
Not only do we have visitors like the Women’s Institute and drama companies, we also try to implement dancing and music into our weekly routines. Our residents absolutely love being able to sing their favourite songs and share the fond memories which follow. Using instruments like maracas and tambourines ensure all of our residents get to take part! The songs we make in the Homes are beautiful and allow our creative juices to flow.
Here are a few reasons why it is important we fill our Homes with music as often as possible:
Tapping into our ‘Musical Memory’
Due to some of our residents struggling with the effects of Dementia, it is important that we help to maintain their brain activity as much as we can. It is widely known that ‘musical memory’ is one of the strongest parts of the brain and so tapping into this usually has many positive effects.
A form of Communication
Communication is key when giving of residents the best care possible, for some of our residents this may not be as easy as speaking to our carers. By accessing music, it allows our residents to emphasise their feelings – or show us how they are feeling in that moment.
Music as a ‘mental stimulant’
Listening to music opens the mind to old, loved memories. Being able to tap into these emotions is a great way to help build and maintain our residents’ memory. Imagine the emotions and memories provoked when listening to the song of your first dance or the song you had on repeat as a child.
