Back of The Moss Community Centre hosts Alzheimer’s Society singing sessions

Albert is an attendee at the Sing for the Brain sessions

Heywood residents have been belting our classic hits from musicals, bands and singers to boost their brain function to combat Alzheimer's disease.

The Sing for the Brain sessions launched in February and run every two weeks.

Manager at Back of The Moss Community Centre, Gillian Hinsley, said: “We are a super exciting group in our local community and we look forward to welcoming everyone into our drop-in sessions. You don't need to be a Dolly Parton or Elvis Presley we just want you to able to join in through singing. We sing songs from the 1950s right through to the present day.”

Alzheimer’s is a disease with devastating effects stripping away a person’s memories and eventually their identity. Currently there is no pharmaceutical treatment to reverse it, but research is showing that music therapy seems to bring a person back even if only momentarily.

Singing can improve your brain activity, wellbeing and mood and you don’t need to be a good singer to benefit.

Gillian said: “I often find myself lost in music and singing away. I think we can all relate to a particular song whether that be a sad memory or a moment where we have grabbed the toothbrush and transformed into the singer.

“Every two weeks I get to watch our attendees transport back in time and see the twinkle in their eyes, as they go back to their happy place and what’s more is their carers and loved ones get to witness it too. To me this is a priceless experience.”

Gillian and former centre manager Jane Catz have been trained by the Alzheimer’s Society to be able to deliver these sessions every fortnight and they hope these sessions will grow each time who maximise the full potential to reach as many people as possible.

The next Sing for The Brain session will take place on Wednesday 5 March starting at 11am until 1pm at Back of The Moss Community Centre, Peel Lane, Heywood with an entry fee of £2. Singing duo Maggie and Jed will be supporting the session, they are Alzheimer’s Society volunteers who help raise vital funds to help research the disease.

While each session takes place refreshments, and a light lunch are also provided thanks to the help from volunteers Jayne and Fran. A weekly quiz also takes place, thanks to Bluebird Care in Rochdale.

For more information on the sessions please contact Gillian Hinsley on 01706 623229 or gillian.hinsley@backofthemoss.co.uk