Singing and laughing with those who have advanced dementia - Songs connect Archie & Ethel

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to find ways of making those with dementia happier and to make a DVD based on those findings for use in training programmes with care staff and families. With financial help from the U.K. UnLtd Organisation in London, Le Messurier, a Dementia Activity organiser, was able to produce this DVD showing how singing and laughing benefits those with advanced dementia. The animation in the DVD is about two ficticious characters, Archie & Ethel, who struggle with their dementia but then find peace and happiness through belonging to a Care Home Choir and being cared for by care assistants who give them the respect they deserve. Le Messurier bases this DVD on her experience working in Care Homes. The DVD shows that singing and laughing can be hugely important to those with advanced dementia and is an important form of communication which can break down the barriers of isolation experienced by those individuals. In addition, laughing and singing seemed to improve them physically, emotionally and socially leading to a happy state and a reduction in anti-depressant drug taking for many of the residents.