Craigbank Care Home Residents Find Joy and Connection Through Musical Memories Program
15 February 2024
Residents at Craigbank Care Home in Glasgow are discovering the power of music to uplift spirits and foster meaningful connections through their participation in the Musical Memories program at Springburn Parish Church. The care home has established a partnership with the club, which caters specifically to individuals living with dementia, offering residents a weekly outing filled with song, camaraderie, and nostalgia.
Every Monday, residents are sent to the club on a rotating basis, ensuring that everyone has the chance to experience the joy of music therapy. Led by dedicated staff, the sessions are a blend of traditional Glaswegian playground songs, such as “You canny shove your granny aff a bus” and “Our wee school’s the best wee school in Glesga,” alongside timeless love songs made famous by Shirley Bassey.
“The residents absolutely love it,” says Karen, the care home’s Activities Coordinator. “It’s amazing to see the smiles on their faces as they sing along and reminisce about the past. Music has a way of reaching them in a way that nothing else can.”
For many residents, the weekly outings have become a highlight, providing a welcome break from their daily routine and a chance to connect with others in a meaningful way. Upon returning to the care home, residents are often asked if they enjoyed their time at the club, and the response is overwhelmingly positive, with smiles and nods all around.
This week, a new resident, Juris, from Latvia, experienced the Musical Memories program for the first time.
“The love songs and old Glasgow tunes really struck a chord with everyone,” says Karen. “It was a beautiful blend of nostalgia and joy, and it’s wonderful to see how much our residents benefit from these outings.”
As the Musical Memories program continues to provide meaningful and enjoyable experiences for residents, the staff at Craigbank Care Home are grateful for the opportunity to enrich the lives of those in their care through the power of music.
