Music and Memory: Singing for the Brain Sessions in Bracknell
Fortnightly music sessions in Bracknell's Clement House supporting people with dementia through song, connection, and community.
We’re delighted to invite you to our fortnightly Singing for the Brain sessions at Clement House in Bracknell, delivered in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society. Whether you’re living with dementia, supporting a loved one, or seeking a warm community gathering, our sessions at Clement House offer a bright, welcoming space where music brings people together and lifts spirits.
Understanding Singing for the Brain
The Alzheimer’s Society created Singing for the Brain as an evidence-based programme that uses music to enhance wellbeing for people living with dementia and those who care for them. Through group singing, musical activities, and social interaction, these sessions provide a safe, enjoyable space where participants can express themselves and connect with others.
Scientific evidence shows that musical engagement stimulates multiple brain areas simultaneously, supporting memory function, enhancing mood, and facilitating communication. Melodies and rhythms can access memories and emotions even when verbal communication has become more challenging.
The Benefits of Singing for People Living with Dementia
Music reaches areas of the brain that often remain responsive even as dementia progresses. Regular participation in singing sessions offers these meaningful benefits:
Strengthening Memory:
Long-familiar songs access deep memory stores, helping participants recall lyrics, experiences, and associated feelings. Regular practice with melodies and words provides cognitive stimulation that supports memory function.
Supporting Communication:
Singing provides an accessible form of expression when finding spoken words becomes harder. Musical structure and rhythm help maintain language abilities and offer alternative ways to communicate thoughts and feelings.
Enhancing Mood:
The act of singing triggers the release of feel-good hormones while lowering stress chemicals in the body. Participants frequently report feeling happier, calmer, and more confident after sessions, with improvements lasting well beyond the session itself.
Building Community:
Social isolation affects many people living with dementia and their carers. Group singing creates natural opportunities for connection, allowing participants to form relationships and feel valued as part of a caring community.
Physical Wellbeing:
Singing exercises the respiratory system, encourages better posture, and improves coordination. These physical aspects complement the cognitive and emotional benefits.
Your Experience at Clement House
We’ve designed our Bracknell sessions to be inclusive, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable for everyone who attends, whatever their previous experience with music.
Welcome and Refreshments: Sessions open with tea or coffee and biscuits in Clement House’s spacious communal hall. This relaxed start allows everyone to arrive at their own pace, reconnect with friends, and welcome newcomers before the music begins.
The Music: A trained session leader guides participants through familiar, beloved songs spanning decades and genres – from classic hymns and popular hits of the 50s, 60s, and 70s to more recent favourites. Songs are selected thoughtfully to match the group’s interests and abilities.
Additional Activities: Beyond singing, sessions include music-based quizzes, gentle competitions, and special themed gatherings. You might enjoy a week celebrating show tunes, another exploring folk songs, or seasonal sessions featuring festive music. These varied activities maintain engagement and provide additional cognitive stimulation.
The atmosphere remains supportive and pressure-free. Whether you sing every word or simply enjoy listening and tapping along, you’re contributing to the group and benefiting from the experience.
Session Details
Location: Clement House, Rectory Lane, Bracknell RG12 2GU – an independent living facility featuring a spacious, light-filled communal hall perfect for group activities
When: 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month, 1:30pm – 3pm
Parking: Free on-site parking at Clement House, plus additional spaces at the nearby Wick Hill car park
Cost: Free of charge for everyone
Booking: Drop in without booking – everyone is welcome
Who’s Welcome: People with dementia, their carers and family members, friends, and all community members interested in participating
Dementia Support from Home Instead Ascot, Camberley and Wokingham
Home Instead Ascot, Camberley and Wokingham is dedicated to enhancing life for people living with dementia and supporting families throughout our community. Hosting Singing for the Brain in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society demonstrates our commitment to providing research-backed dementia support in Bracknell and beyond.
We recognise that quality dementia care encompasses more than addressing physical needs – it’s about honouring each person’s dignity, encouraging meaningful connections, and ensuring opportunities for pleasure and engagement. From community initiatives like Singing for the Brain to our tailored home care support, we focus on enabling people to thrive while living with dementia.
The Role of Music in Our Care Services
Our Care Professionals regularly incorporate music into the personalised care they provide in people’s homes. This might involve playing cherished albums during visits, encouraging clients to join in with favourite songs during everyday activities, or accompanying them to music groups and community gatherings.
These musical moments – hearing a beloved tune, humming along to a familiar melody, sharing a song – can significantly brighten someone’s day, strengthening their sense of connection, worth, and identity.
To explore our specialist dementia care, companionship support, or assistance accessing community activities, please reach out to our approachable team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need singing experience or ability? Absolutely not. These sessions welcome everyone regardless of musical background or vocal ability. The benefits come from taking part and enjoying the music, not from singing perfectly or reading music.
Is this exclusively for people diagnosed with dementia? While the sessions are designed specifically to support people living with dementia, we actively encourage carers, relatives, and community members to attend. Everyone benefits from the shared musical experience.
My loved one can be unsettled in unfamiliar environments – will they cope? The sessions are informal and understanding, with a warm, accepting atmosphere. You’re welcome to arrive early for a quiet cup of tea, step outside if needed, or simply sit and listen until your loved one feels ready to participate more actively.
Does singing genuinely help with dementia? Yes. Both the Alzheimer’s Society’s research and broader neuroscience studies confirm that regular singing benefits memory, communication, emotional wellbeing, and social connection for people living with dementia.
What do we need to bring? Nothing at all. We supply refreshments, all musical materials, and a friendly welcome for everyone.
The Evidence Base for Singing for the Brain
Neuroscience research identifies singing as a comprehensive brain activity, simultaneously activating multiple neural regions. This widespread brain engagement supports cognitive maintenance and may strengthen brain resilience during ageing.
The Alzheimer’s Society based Singing for the Brain on substantial research into music’s neurological effects. Evidence indicates that consistent participation in musical activities may decelerate cognitive decline and meaningfully improve quality of life for people with dementia.
Singing simultaneously exercises memory systems, engages language processing, coordinates physical movement, and processes emotional responses. This holistic brain workout, paired with the social and emotional advantages of group participation, makes these sessions a valuable intervention for dementia care.
Get in Touch
To learn more about our Singing for the Brain sessions or discuss how Home Instead Ascot, Camberley and Wokingham can support you or your loved one, contact our friendly team on 01276 903106.
We’re here to support you through dementia care with compassion, expertise, and understanding of your family’s priorities and needs.