Music for Dementia

Looking to try something new in 2025? Join a choir and give singing a go

With an average age of 94, the Prime Timers at Runwood Care Homes might just be the world’s oldest choir…

It really is never too late to join a choir.

As well as being fun, did you know all the health benefits singing can bring?

  • Improved lung capacity
  • Improved mental health and wellbeing
  • And (for families affected by dementia) music can manage some of the symptoms of the condition, such as agitiation, anxiety and distress.

Make joining a choir your new year’s resolution for 2025.

Simply google ‘community choir near me’ or ‘dementia choir near me’ and see what is available. Or visit the Music Can national directory which lists more than 300 choirs around the country.

Or why not take our light-hearted quiz to help you find the best choir for you. Go on, give it a go!

My ideal choir would be:
  1. A chance for old and young to do something together
  2. A place to let rip my inner rockstar
  3. 2 hours a week when I don’t have to look after anyone else
  4. A place to meet other people who are living with dementia
My choir pin-up is:
  1. Winifred Girls School Choir
  2. Alice Cooper
  3. Gareth Malone
  4. Vicky McClure
My favourite choir song is:
  1. Little Donkey
  2. Livin’ On A Prayer
  3. My Baby Just Cares For Me
  4. Thank You For Being A Friend
My favourite day out would be:
  1. Alton Towers
  2. Glastonbury Pyramid Stage
  3. A spa day
  4. A trip to the west end to see a classic musical
In 2025 I want to…
  1. Get out of the house more
  2. Make new friends
  3. Laugh a lot
  4. All of the above

 

Answers

Mostly As – Young At Heart

You might enjoy an intergenerational choir, with young and old singing together. Intergenerational Music Making has a network of over 350 intergenerational choirs nationwide. Contact them direct to find out if there is an intergenerational choir near you.

Mostly Bs – Rock Chick (or Rocker)

Rock Choir is a national chain of 400+ choirs that sing well known songs from across the decades. There is no upper age limit and you can join from 11+. You can also take part online from home. Visit their website to find the nearest Rock Choir near you.

Mostly Cs – Take A Break

If you choose mainly Cs, you may be caring for someone living with dementia. Joining a choir can become a way to give yourself a break. Did you know it is impossible to think about something else while you are singing? Your choir can be a chance to focus on something else, be yourself again and make new friends. Google ‘community choir near me’ or look up Rock Choir (above)

Mostly Ds – Music Is Medicine

Decades of research prove music can make living with dementia easier. Music cuts through anxiety and lifts your spirits, while words may come more easily when set to music. You might want to go to a community choir, or try one set up specifically for people living with dementia. They go at a slower pace and have tips like using yellow paper for the lyrics sheets. Google ‘dementia choir near me’ or look up Singing For The Brain on the Alzheimer’s Society website.