At Langdon House in Cambridge there’s one recurring event that brings an extra spark of joy to the residents’ lives – the monthly visits of Rebecca Mitchell, a singer whose voice resonates with the spirit of bygone eras.
With an infectious smile and gentle manner with the residents who attend her sessions Rebecca isn’t just any performer; she’s a dancer with two decades of experience under her belt as well as a teacher at Cambridge University.
A professional dancer Rebecca works at Cambridge University and started singing just three years ago.
“It was during lockdown and everyone was doing something new – mine was singing and making videos of me singing ” explained Rebecca.
“I grew up around music as my mother was a music teacher and I really love rock n roll – there’s something about the music, I am sure it must be something scientific, that gets the feet tapping and people joining in.”
So once things started to open up Rebecca started to get out and about specialising in the timeless tunes of rock and roll and pop from the 1950s to the 1970s. With a repertoire that includes hits from legends like Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and the Monkees, Rebecca brings a sense of nostalgia and familiarity to Langdon House with every note she sings.
She offered to come on a voluntary basis in order to get some experience in music performance and the inspiration for Rebecca’s mission hits close to home, as her own mother lived with dementia and experienced a lack of entertainment during her time in a care home.
Reflecting on her mother’s experience, Rebecca shares, “I am sure my mum would have enjoyed what I am doing, and I guess that is part of the reason for doing it – I love to entertain and to perform.”
Through her performances at Langdon House, Rebecca has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of music for those living with dementia. While the effects may vary from person to person, there’s an undeniable sense of connection and engagement that music brings to individuals who may otherwise feel isolated or withdrawn.
“Obviously, it is very rewarding to get my students through their degrees but it’s even more rewarding, I think, to see a man who has not moved out of a wheelchair for some time tapping his feet and singing along to my act. Or someone who is essentially non-verbal singing the lyrics with me.”ve
Kerry Taplin, the Lifestyles Coordinator at Langdon House, expresses gratitude for Rebecca’s monthly visits, acknowledging the positive impact they have. “We are really grateful to Rebecca for coming along to us on a monthly basis – I know the residents look forward to her visits and enjoy the time with her, even if they don’t always show it,” says Kerry.
The benefits of music for those living with dementia are well-documented, offering a myriad of therapeutic effects that extend beyond mere entertainment. These include –
- Music has the power to evoke strong emotions and memories, allowing individuals living with dementia to connect with their past experiences and feelings.
- Listening to familiar songs can uplift spirits and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression, promoting a sense of wellbeing and contentment.
- Even when verbal communication becomes challenging, music provides a universal language that fosters communication and connection between individuals.
- Certain songs can trigger memories from the past, enabling individuals living with dementia to reminisce and engage in meaningful conversations with others.
- Whether it’s tapping their feet or swaying to the rhythm, music encourages physical movement and can improve motor skills.
- Calming melodies and soothing rhythms have a calming effect, reducing instances of agitation or restlessness.
- Shared musical experiences create opportunities for socialisation and bonding among residents, caregivers, and visitors alike.
