A multi-aged singing group that meets monthly at Newtown Library to help slow the onset of dementia is proving popular with its members.
Through musical reminiscence the group promotes the use of the Powys County Council’s library resources about the condition, and strengthens local community bonds and understanding.
The town’s Hafren Junior School, Plas Cae Crwn Residential Home and Bethshan Care Home all take part in this regular session at the local library.
Residents and staff from Plas Cae Crwn, Bethshan Care Home and the library were recently invited to Hafren Junior School for a 1960s themed event. Staff and pupils in Years 5 and 6 had been learning all about the 1960s as part of a school topic.
“It has been a great success and has gone down very well with those that can remember the 1960s as if it was yesterday. It also helps those living with the effects of dementia – by immediately transporting them back in time through the medium of music,” said Trish Thomas, Reader Development Librarian
“We have seen some people just enjoy the interaction and the memories that this has brought to them – and the children learn lots about history and music too, as well as about empathy and caring,” said Trish Thomas, Reader Development Librarian
“What better way to learn than to invite some real-life sixties legends from the Newtown community, Plas Cae Crwn and Bethshan Care Homes to share in our sixties experience with us? It was a fantastic opportunity for us all to get into the swing and celebrate the moves and grooves of this era.”
Lynne Roberts-Watkins Class Teacher and Deputy Headteacher, added: “We all took part in many activities, played games, ate sixties cakes and also played and sang sixties songs! Hafren School is all about being happy and celebrating the good and friendly things in the community. Today, we certainly did both in style.”
Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries is Cllr. Rachel Powell. She commented: “This is a wonderful example of libraries working within the community. It works as a learning experience for our youngsters and as a valuable health and well-being activity for our older generation, who can reminisce about living and growing up in that period.
“They are re-living their youth with the youth of today – a valuable musical interaction. This is a great well-being activity for our older generation that will enhance their mental well-being.”
The singing group meets on last Tuesday of each month from 2-3pm (except school holidays). If you’d like to find out more about the singing group, contact newtown.library@powys.gov.uk or call 01686 626934.
Photos: People of all ages take part in the 1960s themed event at Hafren Junior School.
