Generous resident’s donation was the key to a musical afternoon

Home news

Jul 01, 2018

Weald Heights care home was recently delighted to receive a beautiful piano donated by one of their residents. 

The kind gift formed the centre-piece of a fun-filled afternoon of songs and activities. The residents were joined by pupils from Lady Boswell’s school in Sevenoaks, who were invited to join them in a sing-along to the piano. It was a memorable afternoon and all the residents thoroughly enjoyed their singing.

Music is known to access parts of the brain that are separate to language. In cases where residents have been diagnosed with dementia, this can prove beneficial; a dementia-sufferer may no longer respond to words or be able to speak, but playing music, especially tunes that have a connection for them, can stir emotions and tap into powerful memories. 

The wide ranging benefits of music for those with dementia can range from a feeling of social inclusion, participation in activities and the ability to express feelings. 

Maria Covington, Home Manager, said “At Weald Heights, we were extremely grateful for the donation and that residents and relatives would benefit from this kind gift.  Recent research shows that listening to music improves our mental well-being and boosts our physical health in surprising and astonishing ways and we are confident that the addition of the piano will benefit our residents in many positive ways.” 

Weald Heights’ resident Mary, who kindly donated the piano, said “I was thrilled to know that the piano was going to be a permanent fixture at Weald Heights. It will bring back special memories of when it was played daily in my home.”