SINGING sessions aimed at helping dementia sufferers are now being held in Daventry.
Singing for the Brain is designed to be a fun, stimulating and social activity for people with early to moderate stage dementia.
The first session was held at the Abbey Centre in Market Square last week.
Classes are being led by trained Singing for the Brain leader Tracey Newell.
They aim to provide an opportunity for people with dementia and their carers to meet regularly in an informal and enjoyable environment.
Sessions involve a wide variety of music and include familiar favourites as well as simple songs that may enable harmonies or rounds.
Participants are able to join in as fully as they wish and lyrics and percussion instruments are also made available.
Mrs Newell said: “Music helps to create environments in which people with dementia can express positive feelings and emotions.
“Singing helps to stimulate more conscious breathing and, combined with hand percussion and actions, gives opportunities for gentle exercise.
“We do lots of singing and what we find is a lot of the people who come along are isolated at home so these groups give them the chance to meet other people in the same situation.
“They all have a good sing which improves their confidence and also helps their memory.
“It’s just a wonderful way to lift people’s spirits while they are doing something they love.
“It’s magical and amazing. This is new for Daventry and we hope to get lots more people coming along.”
The sessions will be held on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Tuesday of every month from 1.30pm to 3pm at the Abbey Centre.
For more information contact Mrs Newell on 01832 736670 or 07850 929660.