Our choir will be called Memories R Made and we will be facilitating fun sessions every week in Ormskirk for up to 30 people and their carers. People who come along will have access to weekly, fun sessions that help them to navigate through the difficulties they experience. Music generates memories and people with dementia can be drawn back into their earlier lives and be triggered to engage more readily with those around them. We will use lively music, movement, singing and percussion activities to help improve mental health and wellbeing. Sessions will be fun, interactive and most importantly adapted to the needs of those people attending. There’s nothing more fun than getting involved with others and singing your heart out to music you love.

What we'll deliver:

• Weekly Memories R Made Music and Movement sessions in Ormskirk
• An experienced facilitator who already works with people with dementia and is a qualified music teacher.
• Instruments for attendees to play including maracas and tambourines.
• Up to 30 people plus their carers having fun and enjoying themselves.

Why it's a great idea:

People with dementia can be isolated from their communities and we aim to bring them back into the community and enable them to join in, in a way that they are unable to do currently. We know from the government sourced research that music therapy reduces agitation and need for medication in 67% of people with dementia and we want to bring that benefit to the people in Ormskirk. Our aim is to help reduce anxiety and depression, minimise the behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, increase social interaction, enhance quality of life and evoke memories and encourage talking points. These are big aims, but we know from the research available that these benefits are within the grasp of this project.

Steps to get it done:

• Identify appropriate musical instruments
• Purchase musical instruments
• Creating a song playlist
• Engage a facilitator to hold the weekly sessions
• Start choir sessions

Multiple studies have evidenced the positive effect of music therapy on people with dementia and disabilities. The process of singing and playing music appears to balance emotions, stimulate conversation and reduce blood pressure. That effect impacts carers as well, reducing stress levels. The NHS routinely recruit music therapists and practice the discipline across all age groups including children and people with learning disabilities. The simple joy of listening to music and singing along seems to stir positive emotions in everyone. We believe people with dementia in Ormskirk deserve to experience that for themselves.