Music is well known to lift moods and make people feel happy and relaxed. At West Eaton we always include music into our activities, whether that be with musical entertainers or as a therapy.
The benefits of music
Music is emotionally uplifting, but there are other benefits we see whilst caring for our residents.
Music lessens anxiety and gives a focus of attention to calm the mind. Often Alzheimer’s can make people stressed and find communication difficult. It is soothing and can help people cope.
Interactive musical therapy, such as drumming, is repetitive and that rhythm and melody can help with memory and coordination. There is aerobic exercise involved which boosts circulation and gives mental and physical stimulation.
Music and memory have a powerful connection. Music lights up emotional memories. Residents remembers songs from their past and how those songs connect to memories. For example, a first dance, a song at a wedding, musical theatre.
Interactive music therapy
Drumming is very popular at West Eaton and we have regular Beat It drumming sessions with Sarah. More recently Bym from Beat Bang Bong came in for drumming therapy sessions and the steel drums were a huge hit.
Bym from Beat Bang Bong 
Enjoying the drumming
We also have a wonderful link with Music Care https://www.musicare-uk.com/ who provide high quality musical entertainment in care homes. Michael brought drums and props for our residents to join in.
Megan Morris was on hand for Eleanor’s 100th birthday celebrations. Family and friends along with staff enjoyed listening to her playing the harp.
Musical entertainers
Huw Knight most recently visited to entertain our residents with his singing and on the guitar.
Trevor Santini is another singer who was back by popular demand last week.
Carole Rees Jones also had residents on their feet dancing to her songs.
Intergenerational music
We have a great relationship with staff and little ones from Kimbolton play group. Just hearing the children sing and nattering with our residents is enchanting. Our residents love joining in with the traditional nursery rhymes. It’s lovely how the songs have never been forgotten. The kiddies have some new funny songs as well.
