Chichester care home residents hitting the right notes

A care home in Chichester has struck the right chord by launching a dementia choir ahead of Music Therapy Week.

Residents at Care UK’s Chichester Grange, on Grosvenor Road in Donnington, have come together as part of a music therapy initiative to encourage social interaction and improve wellbeing for those living with dementia. 

With various performances coming up later in the year, the 10 choir members are beginning to tune their voices and practise some of their favourite songs, such as Daisy Bell, and hymns.

Resident Margaret Harrington said: “I love to sing in the choir. It is so fun to get together and sing country music, which is my favourite!”

Nikki Burke, Home Manager at Chichester Grange, said: “There’s nothing like getting together to have a sing-along. For many residents, these are cherished songs from their childhood that hold special meaning. Seeing their faces light up as the music brings back memories is truly special.

“Music helps residents with dementia feel grounded and engaged, even on difficult days. A simple melody can unlock memories, lift spirits and bring people together.

“The whole choir has been practising so much and we are truly excited to have our first performance!”

Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence, Chichester Grange offers residential, nursing and specialist dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies, with luxury facilities including a cinema, hair and beauty salon, pub and stunning gardens. It achieved ‘care home design of the year’ at the Leaders in Care Awards 2022.