Dementia choirs highlighted

Lanarkshire’s two dementia-inclusive choirs feature in a new interactive map being created by Luminate Scotland to encourage more groups to register.

Musical Memories in Hamilton and Motherwell-based In The Mood are both highlighted on the online resource produced by the creative ageing organisation.

It directs people to groups which are part of the dementia inclusive singing network and where provisions include having lyrics printed out in large type, consistent routines, good signage such as for toilets and having volunteers in place who welcome each member as they arrive for sessions.

Musical Memories dementia choir members sing together at St John’s in Hamilton town centre on Wednesdays, while In The Mood Singalong is based at North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre each Friday.

Both are part of the Luminate network, which offers resources and training to choirs and works to help people affected by dementia.

Network co-ordinator Morven Mcintyre said: “Apart from the simple pleasure of singing and responding to music, being part of a community group encourages a sense of wellbeing, can aid communication and offers structure.

“There is so much joy in the room in sessions with dementia-friendly singing groups, and it’s clear how much each participant feels valued by their peers and song leaders as they sing both new and familiar songs together.”

She invited singing and community leaders to get in touch using the Luminate website at https:// luminatescotland.org/ and added: “Community groups interested in becoming dementia-inclusive can find lots of helpful information or can drop us an email to ask for additional advice.”

Supported by Creative Scotland and Age Scotland, the organisation “works to ensure all older people in Scotland can enjoy high quality arts and creative activities”.