22-05-2025
Live music sessions for people with dementia in Pontypool
Music in Hospitals & Care has announced a partnership with Age Connects Torfaen, which will see regular live music sessions take place at the Age Connects day centre in Pontypool.
The initiative, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund's 'Awards for All' programme, aims to improve the emotional wellbeing of people with dementia.
The sessions, which are tailored for people aged 50 and over, will take place twice a month for the next two years.
Emma Wooten, development manager at Age Connects Torfaen, said: "The idea is to explore whether live music resonates with our service users.
"Some of them are nonverbal, but as soon as the music starts, their faces light up, they clap, tap along, or even start to sing.
"It brings back memories - maybe it is their wedding song or a tune from a family celebration.
"Music evokes strong emotions and can trigger joyful or meaningful memories."
The charity said that 76 per cent of residents reported feeling less isolated after participating in Music in Hospitals & Care live music, while 78 per cent of residents felt less stressed and anxious.
Ms Wooten added: "With something like Alexa or YouTube playing in the background, distractions are common, but with a live performance they are captivated.
"That is rare for someone with dementia, whose attention span is often short."
