A NEW singing group for people living with dementia is being launched by Alzheimer’s Society in Stansted.

Singing for the Brain ?is a programme developed by the society for people with memory problems and their carers. It promotes communication through singing which can help with articulation, concentration, focus and motivation. Specially-trained facilitators deliver a varied programme of vocal, rhythmic and gentle physical exercise and dance, along with songs from different eras and styles.

The group will take place at The Quakers Meeting House, Chapel Hill and will be launched on Thursday October 3 at 10.30am.

The sessions will run for eight weeks and will then move on to Epping Forest and Harlow, before returning to Uttlesford next year. Anyone living in the district is very welcome to join.

Marion Howell, support services manager for Alzheimer’s Society in west Essex, said: “Even when many memories are hard to retrieve, music can sometimes still be recalled - if only for a short while. The sessions help people with dementia communicate improving their mood and leaving them feeling good about themselves.

“There are over 1,000 people living in the Uttlesford area and this will increase by around 30 per cent by 2021 but with the right support people can live well with the condition for a number of years.”

As well as Singing for the Brain, Alzheimer’s Society in Uttlesford offers a number of services including two dementia support services, one based at the memory clinics and another in the organisation’s community-based offices, memory cafes, activity groups, and peer support groups. To find out more visit alzheimers.org.uk/localinformation or contact 01279 427522.