Oswestry sing-along aids Marjorie's memory
A weekly sing-along has proved a lifeline for a 98-year-old woman from north Shropshire.
Marjorie Bird, of Oswestry, is registered blind and lives with advanced dementia, but singing therapy sessions offered by Red Cross volunteers appear to be helping to stimulate her memory.
The sessions are part of the Red Cross's home from hospital service, and Marjorie's daughter, Jean, said they had made a huge difference to her mother's state of mind.
Jean said: "Jill Reese-Jones, the Red Cross volunteer, came round each week for nearly two months, and she and mum would start belting out golden oldies with gusto, anything from My Old Man's a Dustman to I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles.
"The visits helped mum immensely because they stimulated her brain, making her much more responsive. After Jill called, she seemed to be on an adrenaline high, really alert and chatty."
The sessions helped so much that both Jean and visiting support workers have also started singing to encourage Marjorie to complete daily tasks.
Jean said: "Whenever mum is confused or exhausted, we'll just sing out a verse of a song. She always joins in, and afterwards seems more grounded and able to respond to simple requests.
"It's so nice. You can see mum glowing with satisfaction when she's been able to do something independently. I'm so grateful to the Red Cross – and of course, the irrepressible Jill."
The Red Cross home from hospital service in Shropshire is available to people who need help after a stay in hospital. This may be practical support, such as collecting prescriptions, assistance with shopping or transport to appointments, but also providing companionship and helping to build confidence.
Grace Cookson, service manager for Shropshire, said: "We're delighted that Jill's support has helped Marjorie and her daughter. Something as simple as having someone to talk to, or sing with, can make a huge difference to an individual's confidence and quality of life.
"Thankfully Marjorie has fantastic support from her daughter Jean and carers. However, we find that others don't always have family and friends living nearby to turn to in a crisis. The support of our volunteers can be vital in helping people readjust to life at home after a stay in hospital, helping to prevent unnecessary readmissions and supporting family members or carers."
