The power of music strikes a chord for stroke sufferers
A CENTRE in Derby is hoping to use new funding to help stroke victims cope with the long-term effects of their condition.
Derbyshire Stroke and Neuro Therapy Centre, in Chesterfield, has recently received funding that they hope will enable more people to benefit from “the power of music”.
The stroke centre will use the funding of £42,600 to offer music therapy to the people it supports, 70 percent of whom suffer from dementia.
The charity carries out various types of sessions using music to help their visitors, from drumming and dancing, to full body workouts. It is also believed that the music could help those with dementia strengthen their ties to past events and aid reminiscence.
Julie Wheelhouse, chief executive at The Derbyshire Stroke & Neuro Therapy Centre, said: “We use music to support reminiscence activities, help people to relax, encourage participation in exercise sessions and most importantly to bring a sense of enjoyment and fun with friends.
“We were delighted to be awarded a grant which will enable us to develop our existing use of music by employing our own Neuro Music therapist and purchase a diverse range of instruments that everyone will be able to use and enjoy. We regularly hold themed weeks which allows us to entertain and engage with people in a unique way.
“Our most recent themes have included rock and roll, Disney films, flower power and a weeklong beach party using music, costumes, props and food to create an atmosphere that promotes lively discussions about memories from the past, which leaves people feeling happy and relaxed.”
Previous research has shown that music therapy can alleviate the symptoms of depression for dementia sufferers 40 percent more than that of regular singing activities. It also reduces levels of agitation and the need for medication in 67 percent of cases.
John Sharpe, who was diagnosed with dementia six years ago, attends The Derbyshire Stroke Centre and has seen the benefits that music can have on his condition. He said: “Music is my memories. It makes me remember the bands I saw long ago, such as
Queen at Earls Court in 1982 and Bowie in Manchester.
“I really enjoy talking to my friends here about music and bands, it’s so good to remember them together.
“My dementia has no cure – my arms and legs look fine, but my brain isn’t.
“I love coming to the centre and seeing singers like Claire from Razzle Dazzle and Paper Kite, it brings a smile to my face.” The grant has been provided by the Music for Dementia campaign whose goal is to provide musical services to everyone with a dementia diagnosis. They believe music can enhance the quality of life for those with the diagnosis, and carers. Grace Meadows, director of the Music for Dementia national campaign, said: “We are delighted to be able to support Derbyshire Stroke Centre with a grant. “Musical services have been severely impacted in the last 16 months, meaning many people living with dementia and their carers have lost important connections and special moments that only music can provide.”
I really enjoy talking to my friends here about music and bands, it’s so good to remember them together. John Sharpe