Singing sessions help with memory loss
ASINGING group specifically set up to help people with memory problems welcomed the mayor for their latest session.
Singing For The Brain is run by the Alzheimer’s Society for people with dementia and their carers.
Macclesfield Mayor, Councillor Beverley Dooley, joined the members to learn about the group and hear how singing together as a group can have a positive effect on its members.
The Singing for the Brain programme promotes communication through singing which can help with articulation, concentration, focus and motivation.
Specially trained facilitators deliver a varied programme of vocal, rhythmic and gentle physical exercise and dance, along with songs from different eras and styles.
Coun Dooley met group members over a cup of tea at Macclesfield Methodist Church and then joined in simple exercises, singing games and a sequence of songs from musicals.
Jill Grimshaw, Singing for the Brain leader, said: “We were delighted to welcome Councillor Dooley to our Singing for the Brain session to show her what we do.
“We all love to sing and we were very happy to see her join in so enthusiastically. Even when many memories are hard to retrieve, music can sometimes still be recalled - if only for a short while.
“The sessions help people with dementia communicate, improving their mood and leaving them feeling good about themselves. There are 5,730 people living with dementia in East Cheshire but with the right support people can live well with the condition for a number of years.”
Councillor Dooley, who also represents Macclesfield Central ward, added: “It was wonderful to see everyone having so much fun at the Alzheimer’s Society Singing for the Brain group in Macclesfield.
“It’s a wonderful group that helps people with dementia and their carers to live well.”
The sessions are held fortnightly on a Tuesday afternoon at Macclesfield Methodist Church on Westminster Road.
The sessions - which are open to people with memory problems and their carers - run from 2.30pm to 4pm.
To find out more contact the Alzheimer’s Society on 01625 503302, or go to alzheimers.org.uk.