OK Music Harmony is group music therapy sessions for elderly people with diagnosed memory problems and other conditions which take place at Homelink Respite Care Centre in Whitton. We are running bi-weekly groups at Homelink for their clients and monthly carer and client groups to encourage bonding, support carers and help them use music at home in a therapeutic way. The groups help to reduce isolation and improve mental well-being.
Music is especially beneficial for elderly people with memory problems as memory of music often remains even at late stages, and people can still sing, appreciate and respond to music, which can help them access memories.
We are very grateful to Heathrow Community Trust Communities Together for funding this project.
ACTIVITIES:
- Singing familiar songs and talking about them
- Playing percussion or other instruments, copying rhythm
- Choosing a theme each week with pictures and songs to evoke memories and prompt discussion
- Listening to music to enjoy
- Movement to the music (soft movements)
BENEFITS:
- Engaging in a joint activity gives a positive social experience
- Listening to familiar songs evokes memories and helps them to communicate, express themselves and make friends
- Singing and sharing of memories helps relaxation and improves mood
- Their confidence and sense of worth increases as they sing and play a percussion instrument with others