Singing is something we can all enjoy

Heather Edwards singing on Elsing Ward.

Monday, August 12, 2013
3:47 PM

Therapeutic singing sessions have begun at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital to help older patients with dementia.

The sessions are being delivered on Elsing Ward by a hospital volunteer, who is a qualified music teacher and has been specially trained in dementia awareness.

Heather Edwards is part of a local support group called “Come Singing” which provides singing groups for people of all ages living with dementia.

The music teacher, who has donated a keyboard to the ward, said: “Singing is a wonderful way for people to share emotions and memories. It’s good to encourage patients to sing along and choose songs if they are able, but even a tap of the toes or a nod of the head is a wonderful reward.”

Jane Douglas, matron for Elsing Ward, added: “The first session has gone down very well with patients and staff and we hope to make it a regular event on the ward. We know that patients can benefit from social activities and singing is something we can all enjoy.”

Other events held on Elsing Ward for dementia patients include tea parties to celebrate key national events such as the Diamond Jubilee.

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital was one of the first hospitals in the country to sign up to being dementia friendly in an initiative led by Norfolk and Suffolk Dementia Alliance.

http://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/therapeutic_singing_sessions_start_at_norfolk_hospital_1_2331466