MUSIC rang down the hallways as the Port Macquarie Dementia Friendly Community Alliance celebrated the first anniversary of its weekly musical program “Memories in Melodies”.
The group supports people living with dementia, Parkinson’s disease and other similar conditions, and is facilitated by music therapist Phoebe Thompson-Star.
The Alliance also welcomes senior members of the community who’d like to experience the benefits of music.
Fifty people attended Monday’s anniversary celebrations and were treated to singing, drumming, brain exercises and some dancing.
“A very busy, joyous occasion was had by all,” alliance president Gai McPherson told News Of The Area.
“Sandwiches were provided by Soul Sisters, and cakes, scones and slices were donated by our volunteers and some of the other attendees.”
Joining them for their special morning tea were several invited guests including representatives from the alliance’s grant providers Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, Australia Post, and Westport Club, along with their sponsor Just Better Care.
The Port Macquarie Dementia Friendly Alliance was established 13 years ago, initiated by past member and former MP Leslie Williams.
It aims to facilitate the development and success of a dementia friendly community in the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council area.
The Memories in Melodies program launched in July last year and is a collaboration between the alliance and Soul Sounds Music Therapy, where Phoebe is a Music Therapist.
Sessions are held weekly with the support of alliance volunteers.
“Each session lasts 60 minutes and includes singing, playing instruments, movement, and fun, said Gai.
“It also allows for social connection over morning tea.”
She hopes it has a positive impact on the lives of people living with dementia, and their carers and families.
The alliance promotes awareness and understanding and provides support services, education and information.
“[We want] to ensure that people living with dementia and their carers have a voice in the community.”
Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians and the leading cause of death for Australian women, according to Dementia Australia.
It is estimated that by the end of 2025, there will be 433,300 living with dementia – increasing to an estimated 812,500 by 2054.
Adding a local perspective to the statistics, there will be an estimated 2586 people living with dementia by the end of 2025 within the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.
This is estimated to rise by 76 percent to 4548 by 2054.
Next up for the alliance is a fundraising Bunnings BBQ on 26 July and a number of events are planned for September, which is Dementia Awareness Month.
“We are [also] available for presentations and discussions around dementia, lived experiences of carers and people living with dementia, and understanding communication strategies with people living with dementia.”
Gai and the alliance team can’t thank their supporters enough for embracing their celebrations and community.
To learn more about Port Macquarie Dementia Friendly Community Alliance, visit dementiafriendlypmq.com.au or find them on Facebook (Dementia Friendly Port Macquarie).
By Rikki WALLER
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