The Power of Music for Dementia: Singing for the Brain in Farnborough
Join our welcoming community where music brings joy, connection, and support to people living with dementia and their loved ones.
Join us for uplifting weekly Singing for the Brain sessions in Farnborough, delivered in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society. Whether you’re living with dementia, caring for a loved one, or simply looking for a welcoming community activity, our friendly group at St Johns Court offers a warm space where music brings people together.
What is Singing for the Brain?
Singing for the Brain is a specially designed programme created by the Alzheimer’s Society that uses the power of music to support people living with dementia and their carers. These sessions combine singing, music activities, and social connection in a supportive, enjoyable environment where everyone is welcome.
Research shows that music engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, helping to strengthen memory, boost mood, and improve communication. Even when words become difficult, melodies and rhythms can unlock memories and provide meaningful ways to connect with others.
Why Singing Helps People Living with Dementia
Music has a unique ability to reach parts of the brain that remain active even when dementia affects other cognitive functions. Here’s how regular singing sessions can make a difference:
Memory and Recall:
Familiar songs and melodies tap into long-term memory, helping people recall words, experiences, and emotions from the past. The repetition of lyrics and tunes provides gentle mental exercise that supports memory retention.
Communication and Language:
When spoken conversation becomes challenging, singing offers an alternative pathway for expression. The rhythm and structure of songs can help people find words and maintain their ability to communicate.
Emotional Wellbeing:
Singing releases endorphins and reduces stress hormones, creating feelings of happiness and calm. Many participants tell us they feel more like themselves after a session, with reduced anxiety and a genuine sense of joy.
Social Connection:
Loneliness and isolation can be significant challenges for people living with dementia and their carers. Our group singing sessions create opportunities to build friendships, share experiences, and feel part of a supportive community.
Physical Benefits:
Singing improves breath control, posture, and coordination. The physical act of singing exercises the lungs and supports overall wellbeing.
What Happens at Our Farnborough Sessions?
Our Singing for the Brain sessions at St Johns Court are designed to be relaxed, enjoyable, and accessible to everyone, regardless of musical ability or experience.
Before We Begin: Each session starts with a warm welcome, tea or coffee, and biscuits. This gives everyone time to settle in, chat with familiar faces, and meet new friends in a comfortable, unhurried atmosphere.
The Singing Session: A trained session leader guides participants through familiar, beloved songs spanning decades and genres – classic hymns, memorable hits from the 50s, 60s, and 70s, and cheerful sing-alongs that spark joyful memories. Songs are selected thoughtfully to match the group’s interests and abilities.
Beyond Singing: We keep things varied and engaging with music quizzes, friendly competitions, and themed weeks. One week might focus on songs from the 1950s, another on seaside favourites or festive melodies. These activities add extra enjoyment and mental stimulation to every session.
There’s no pressure to perform or sing perfectly. This is about enjoying music together, sharing smiles, and experiencing the uplifting power of song in a caring, judgment-free environment.
Session Details
Location: St Johns Court, St Johns Road, Farnborough GU14 9RW – a welcoming independent living facility in the heart of Farnborough
Every Tuesday from 10am – 11.30am
Parking: Free parking is available at the neighbouring community hall, making it easy to attend
Cost: Completely free for all community members
Booking: No booking required – simply turn up and join us
Who Can Attend: People living with dementia, their carers, family members, and anyone from the community who would like to participate
Dementia Care from Home Instead Farnborough, Farnham and Fleet
At Home Instead Farnborough, Farnham and Fleet, we’re committed to supporting people living with dementia and their families across our local community. We’re proud to host these Singing for the Brain sessions in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, bringing evidence-based dementia support to Farnborough.
Our team understands that dementia care goes beyond medical needs – it’s about preserving dignity, fostering connection, and creating moments of joy. Whether through community programmes like Singing for the Brain or our personalised home care services, we’re here to help people live well with dementia.
How Music Features in Our Home Care Services
Music plays a valuable role in the care our Care Professionals provide at home. We might play a client’s favourite records during visits, encourage singing along to familiar tunes during daily activities, or support people to attend local music groups and community events.
These small moments – a cherished song, a remembered melody, a chance to sing together – can transform someone’s day, helping them feel connected, valued, and more like themselves.
If you’d like to learn more about our award-winning dementia care, companionship services, or support getting out into the community, our friendly team is here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be able to sing to join? Not at all. The benefits of Singing for the Brain come from participating and enjoying the music, not from singing in tune or having musical training. Everyone is welcome, regardless of ability.
Is it just for people with dementia? While the programme is designed to support people living with dementia, carers, family members, and community members are all encouraged to join. It’s a shared experience that benefits everyone.
What if my loved one becomes anxious in new situations? Our sessions are relaxed and informal, with a welcoming atmosphere and familiar faces. You’re free to arrive a bit early to settle in over a cup of tea, take breaks if needed, or simply observe until you feel comfortable joining in.
Can singing really make a difference for dementia? Yes. Evidence from the Alzheimer’s Society and neuroscience research demonstrates that regular singing supports memory, communication, mood, and social wellbeing for people living with dementia.
What should we bring? Just yourselves. We provide everything you need for an enjoyable session – tea, coffee, biscuits, and all the music materials.
The Science Behind Singing for the Brain
Neuroscientists describe singing as a “whole-brain activity” because it activates numerous brain regions simultaneously. This multi-sensory engagement helps maintain cognitive function and may support brain resilience as we age.
The Alzheimer’s Society developed Singing for the Brain based on extensive research into how music affects the brain. Studies suggest that regular musical activities can help slow cognitive decline and improve quality of life for people living with dementia.
When we sing, we’re not just making music – we’re exercising our memory, practicing language skills, coordinating physical movements, and processing emotions all at once. This comprehensive mental workout, combined with the social and emotional benefits of group singing, makes these sessions a powerful tool for dementia support.
Get in Touch
For more information about our Singing for the Brain sessions or to discuss how Home Instead Farnborough, Farnham and Fleet can support you and your loved one, please contact our friendly team on 01252 758 716.
We’re here to help you navigate dementia care with compassion, expertise, and genuine understanding of what matters most to you and your family.