Happy World Music Day! Whether you enjoy playing, singing, reading or simply listening to it, music has a huge impact on all of us and this is certainly true for the residents of our homes.

Music has played such a big part in the lives of our residents and that’s something we wish to continue within our homes. Music is a major theme in our activities programme and we arrange many activities that are either focussed around or enhanced by music. We are fortunate to have some fantastic local musical performers who visit our homes to provide regular entertainment for our residents. Our residents enjoy performances from singers who will sing familiar songs of a variety of genres, everyone loves to sing along and join in. We also welcome some talented musicians who perform music on the violin, piano, guitar and other instruments, as well as brass bands and choirs. There is always something to suit any musical style and taste, no matter what our residents prefer.

We never underestimate the power music has on our residents’ mental wellbeing, providing feelings of familiarity, calmness and joy. Music can evoke fond memories for our residents and is a very valuable tool during our reminiscence sessions. Music has been proven to help those with dementia, as well as offering benefits to residents struggling with feelings of anxiety. In addition to the mental health benefits, music also encourages our residents to get moving, often forming a key part of our gentle exercise sessions. Our staff are always happy to share a dance with our residents to their favourite songs.

Music can also help to bring people together, with many of our social occasions being centred around music. The seasonal parties hosted at our homes always feature wonderful musical entertainment for both residents and guests to enjoy, and our smaller celebrations within the homes include music that fits the theme of the occasion. For our residents, we aim to ensure music is associated with happiness, fun and creating wonderful memories.

These are just some of the ways we utilise music within our homes and a few of the ways it benefits our residents. On World Music Day it is important to remember the positive impact music has on all of our lives and to truly appreciate the joy it brings.