What is music therapy in care homes?
Music has a unique ability to connect to people and bring about positive change in their lives. Music therapy is a great way of embracing and using this experience in dementia care.
Sessions are organised by trained music therapists with a postgraduate clinical qualification in music therapy, who may also hold a degree in music or psychology.
At Brendoncare, we work with our residents living with dementia on a one-to-one basis and in groups, depending on what is most appropriate for the person.
What are the benefits of music therapy in dementia care?
The benefits of sessions can include calming anxiety, reducing agitation, reducing feelings of isolation, supporting self-expression, inspiring positive social interactions and promoting the movement to music.
Whilst pursuing specific session aims, the music therapist’s main aim is to build a supportive relationship with the people they work with and to provide a safe, open space where the person can act spontaneously and express themselves.
You can find out more about our sessions at Brendoncare Froxfield with the wonderful Arash Bazrafshan, a qualified music therapist who is the director of MusiKind, on one of our blogs here.
What musical support do you have for people living with dementia in the community?
As part of our Brendoncare Membership, we offer a virtual ‘musical walk’ led by Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra musician, Hugh.
The session is held fortnightly and includes a ‘walk’ with sub titles. After the ‘walk’ there is an opportunity for everyone to discuss the music they have listened to.
The idea of these musical walks is to stimulate and engage the minds of those living with dementia. You can read about this musical club here.
If you’d like to find out more, you can get in touch with the community team on 01962 857099 or at clubs@brendoncare.org.uk
Do you offer dedicated dementia care at Brendoncare?
Yes, we offer dedicated dementia care in some of our Brendoncare homes. Our highly trained staff offer support and care in a safe and secure environment.
If you’d like to speak to someone about our dementia care, you can get in touch with our customer relations team on 0300 303 4866 or at homes@brendoncare.org.uk
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