Silent discos 'transformative' for dementia residents
BBCA care home worker says physiotherapy-led silent discos have been "transformative" for people living with dementia.
Residents at Osborne House care home in Clevedon have benefited from the Community Therapy CIC scheme after funding from North Somerset Council was given to hold discos across the local authority.
Aimed at improving well-being and dementia care through music-led movement, seven physiotherapy staff attend the discos to support those less mobile with their balance and coordination.
Alex Dickinson-Lovett, activities coordinator at the home, said it was "amazing" to see residents' faces "light up" when their headphones are put on.
Rather than through speakers, a silent disco includes music played through wireless headphones, often featuring different songs or music played simultaneously on different channels.
Dickinson-Lovett said "Music is the last thing that goes when people have dementia and the connection they get through the music is amazing.
"There are a few people who are non-verbal and you put the headphones on and suddenly there's movement there, or smiling... it's really important for the carers to see that side as well."
"Music brings people back in a world where we can communicate with each other," she added.
Resident Patricia said she enjoyed putting the headphones on and listening to classical music during the sessions.
"And people don't mind not hearing other peoples music," she added.
Physiotherapist Kelly Steed said: "Dementia can make people quite easily distracted, a bit less motivated, maybe a lower mood, confused.
"We find that person can be sat in a room and we put the headphones on and play some nostalgic music… and the difference is beautiful to see," she added.
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