Filling our homes with the joy of music
Music adds so much to our lives and we ensure that there is plenty of opportunity to listen to and participate in musical activities across our homes all year round.
But during the festive season, music brings even more joy, uniting us all in a sense of community, fellowship and family. Christmas carols and favourite tunes remind us of happy times, of loved ones and lifelong traditions. It is important to provide the right environment for these traditions to continue for our residents and for our staff, bringing everyone together in song.
We are very lucky to have our own Elizabeth Finn Homes choir at Halliwell, our lovely residential home just outside Tunbridge Wells. The Wells Singers Choir is made up of residents who perform together throughout the year on special occasions. The choir brings much joy for those involved, it provides a sense of belonging and camaraderie and the weekly practices are much anticipated. Learning songs helps memory recall, providing brain stimulation and is a vital source of emotional and mental wellbeing. Singing in a group creates a sense of belonging and purpose, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. It’s a wonderful way to stay engaged and active, both mentally and physically.
This Christmas The Wells Singers will be holding a carol concert on 18th December for residents, staff, friends and family. As well as our own choir, throughout December we are hosting various live choirs and streaming carol services for everyone to enjoy.
Earlier this month Halliwell invited residents and staff to take part in a discussion about Christmas traditions, to share personal experiences and customs. It also involved singing some old favourite Christmas tunes. The event brought everyone together and it was a great start to the festive season.
Music is a universal language with the power to enrich lives, lift spirits and bring people together. The simple act of singing along to a favourite tune or tapping feet to a lively rhythm can evoke happy memories, stimulate cognitive functions, and foster social connections.
Here are some of the key benefits that music offers us:
- Stress relief: Singing can reduce stress, which is common in older adults.
- Creates connections: Singing together as a group fosters bonding and togetherness.
- Relieves grief: Singing can provide solace and comfort during difficult times.
- Improves speaking ability: Singing can enhance language skills.
- Enhances mood and psychological wellness: Singing releases mood-boosting chemicals. It makes people happy!
- Promotes general health: Singing and moving to music can improve respiratory function, coordination, and physical fitness. Gentle dancing or rhythmic movements can provide valuable physical exercise.
- Improves posture: Singing can help maintain good posture.
- Social Interaction: Group musical activities promote social interaction, which supports emotional health.
- Cognitive Benefits: Engaging with music helps keep the brain active and healthy, improves recall and can trigger memories.
At Elizabeth Finn Homes, we are committed to integrating music into our daily lives, recognising its invaluable role in promoting health, happiness, and a sense of togetherness. Here are some of the events we are hosting in our homes this Christmas:
Rashwood Droitwich Community Choir 6.30pm, 10th December
Halliwell Choir Concert 3pm 18th December
Cotswolds Xmas Carols 11am, 11th December
The Cotswold’s Voices choir 4pm, 7th December
Cotswold Home Christmas carols/communion, 11am, 11th December
Cotswolds Home Lechlade Occasional choir, 11.30 am, 14th December
Grove Court Choir activity
Eversfield Carol Service
This festive season join us in celebrating the joy that music brings and the wonderful community spirit it fosters for all ages across all cultures.
