March to see start of new dementia choir

Photo shows, Announcing the creation of a new dementia choir in Mullingar, from left, Emer Donohoe senior occupational therapist, HSE, Angie Lynch, choir director and Dr Orla Dolan, senior occupational therapist HSE.

A dementia choir for all levels of singing ability is to be established in Mullingar Arts Centre and the first session is on Tuesday March 3, and then each Tuesday (1-2.15pm).

Similar in focus to the ‘Forget-Me-Nots’ choir that featured in October’s two-part documentary, ‘Brendan Grace – Thanks for the Memories’, the dementia choir will be for any person with a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s and their families, loved ones and carers.

“People with dementia can struggle with everyday memory but musical memories are often preserved because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease,” a HSE spokesperson told the Westmeath Examiner.

The choir is being facilitated through the Occupational Therapy Department, HSE Longford Westmeath and the Alzheimer’s society Longford Westmeath, and the choir director is Angie Lynch from the arts centre.

“The aim is to create a supportive, relaxed social space for people with dementia to meet and to promote a sense of inclusion and achievement and self worth,” the HSE spokesperson said, adding that presented an opportunity for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia to engage in a meaningful activity with their families and loved ones.

“Music awakens the senses and makes thoughts and feelings come alive. Music and singing help lift mood, provide cognitive stimulation and they support social interaction,” the spokesperson stated.

All levels of singing abilities are welcome. It is free to join.

For information and/or registration, please contact Emer Donohoe on 086 6076879 or Dr Orla Dolan on 086 0281584.