Celebrating a Year of Harmony

In a heartwarming celebration, a unique singing group dedicated to those living with dementia has marked its first anniversary. Let's Sing to Remember, a vibrant community project, meets biweekly at St Mary's Church Hall in Thornbury, South Gloucestershire.

A Silver Lining Post-Pandemic

Founded in April last year after the discontinuation of the local Singing for the Brain sessions by the Alzheimer’s Society due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this initiative has filled a crucial void. Co-founder Gill Dunkley expressed the profound impact the group has had, stating, "It gives comfort to those dealing with dementia because they can still sing. Often, that's one of the last skills to fade, as it taps into treasured memories."

A Legacy of Love

The inspiration behind Let's Sing to Remember comes from Dunkley's late father, who had dedicated years to caring for his wife and volunteered at the previous singing group. "When Singing for the Brain paused during the pandemic, I felt a need for something new to emerge in its place," Dunkley shared. Her father’s commitment to community engagement inspired her to carry on his legacy.

The Need for Connection

Though the Alzheimer’s Society continues to operate several Singing for the Brain groups throughout the South West, they opted not to revive the Thornbury sessions. Regional service manager Lorna Robertson mentioned that alternative groups exist in nearby locations like Bristol. Such decisions underscore the critical need for these supportive environments.

Songs That Spark Memories

Let's Sing to Remember thrives on volunteer spirit, with Dunkley and fellow co-founder Julie Roberts at the helm. Roberts recalls the joy her late father found in music: "He would sing along without even needing the words; it all came flooding back to him." This testament to music's power highlights why this group is so essential.

Singing: A Powerful Path to Wellness

Recent research published in November 2024 emphasizes the myriad health benefits of singing—boosting mood, improving memory, and enhancing social connections. Music therapist Maggie Grady from Mindsong in Gloucestershire asserts that music engagement activates every area of the brain, making it a uniquely beneficial activity for cognitive health. "It's one of the only activities where this happens," she noted.

Join the Movement!

With ongoing support and a commitment to uplifting lives, Let's Sing to Remember exemplifies how music can bridge the gap between past and present for those with dementia. Stay connected with BBC Bristol on social media for more inspiring stories, and consider how you can support similar initiatives in your community.