We were delighted last year when we received Lottery Funding to provide Music Therapy sessions for one day a week for a year at Stocks Hall Nursing Home in Ormskirk.

Residents are offered an opportunity to take part in weekly sessions aiming to draw the individual or group into communication through music, using improvised music or known songs. The power of music, especially singing, to unlock memories and help stimulate memory can make a significant difference in helping reduce the isolation, anxiety and depression that can be part of dementia and older age. Our connection to music can transport us back to our childhoods, or special moments in our lives, promoting memory and alleviating depression. When we listen to music we enjoy, the brain releases endorphins which can provide an uplifting effect. Listening to music, singing, playing instruments and moving to music can all improve the quality of life and social interaction of elderly people in nursing or palliative care.

Many elderly people living in care homes describe a feeling of having lost a sense of themselves or feeling as if they have no voice. Music therapy can combat feelings of powerlessness and offer an outlet for creativity and communication.
Gel Ball, Manager said “fun activities are a vital part of life and the addition of Music Therapy added to the tailored activities run at our home, allows us to encompass every aspect of wellbeing to ensure individual health and care needs are continually met. Music unites people like no language can’