The Sol og Strand Foundation has supported a gospel choir for people with dementia
Singing has a special quality – especially for people with dementia. This is the starting point for a beautiful idea from the support association Lærkehusets Venner, which has received a donation of 15,000 kroner from Fonden Sol og Strand by Margit and Kjeld.
– It is fantastic that we have received this donation, which means we can bring joy to citizens with dementia, says Ruth Mortensen from the association.
Lærkehuset in Struer is a day care facility for home-dwelling citizens with dementia, and the funds from the foundation have been used for three concerts with gospel singer Lydia Wairimu, where people with dementia and their relatives have had the opportunity to sing along.
– We know that singing makes a difference for people with dementia. It has been seven years since Lydia was at Lærkehuset to lead a choir, and the experience was magical. Back then, we saw how singing can touch people – they get a sparkle in their eyes, and we even experienced a man getting up from his wheelchair – completely absorbed in the music, tells Ruth Mortensen.
– Our wish has been to repeat the event, and it has been possible thanks to this donation.
In addition to the musical experience, cake and various beverages were served. About 60 people with dementia and their relatives participated in the gospel singing, and it has once again been a good experience for the users, says Ruth Mortensen, who, along with her husband, is engaged in the volunteer work at Lærkehusets Venner.
– It is very rewarding that I can make a difference by being a volunteer, says 76-year-old Ruth Mortensen, who also enjoys taking the users from Lærkehuset out on a bike ride.