Dementia patients benefit from ‘Come Singing’ sessions

Therapeutic singing sessions have just started at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital for the benefit of patients on Elsing Ward which specialises in caring for older patients with dementia.

The sessions are being delivered by hospital volunteer Heather Edwards who is a qualified music teacher and has been specially trained in dementia awareness. Heather is part of a local support group called “Come Singing” which provides singing groups for people of all ages living with dementia.

Heather, who has donated a keyboard to the ward, says: “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, says: “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 events such as the Diamond Jubilee.

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital was one of the first hospitals in the country sign up to being dementia friendly in an initiative led by Norfolk and Suffolk Dementia Alliance. The aim is to improve the care for patients with dementia, as well as improving the sense of pride and well-being in staff who care for people with dementia in acute hospitals.