Care Homes Across Nottingham Connect Through the Power of Music
Nottingham care homes in the Runwood Homes’ portfolio have come together to create their very own resident choir. The homes involved include Braywood Gardens in Carlton, Jubilee Court in Hucknall, and Leawood Manor in West Bridgford.
Residents residing in each of these homes have been practicing every week, and last week, they finally had the chance to sing together over zoom.
It was a great success and the residents loved getting involved and meeting new people in some of the other care homes within the area. The songs that were picked and practiced for the first singalong included Elvis Presley’s ‘Can’t help falling in love’ and the old classic ‘It’s a long way to Tipperary’.
Lydia Morris, Customer Relations Manager, was inspired to put the choir together after she went to visit Nottingham’s Dementia Choir, which was formed by actress Vicky McClure. Lydia thought that a selection of Runwood Homes’ care homes in Nottingham would benefit hugely from the power of music, singing and connection.
Lydia commented:
“The choir has so far been a great success. The residents have absolutely loved it. The last choir practice at Braywood Gardens resulted in lots of giggles. It is visible the positive impact that singing with others has for our residents.”
Music and singing in the care home setting and particularly for those living with dementia has so many benefits. It is not only a creative form of expression, but it can also reduce depression and anxiety. Certain songs can link to someone’s identity and elicit emotions and memories from their past. Practicing together also helps create a sense of purpose and performing with others builds confidence and boosts feelings of belonging.
Singing with other care homes also encourages residents to make new friends and form more meaningful and profound relationships and connections.
The first session together was enjoyed by everyone involved, and residents look forward to doing it again.
The group look forward to inviting the local community to Braywood Gardens care home on the 2nd of July for live music, refreshments and a performance from the choir.
