Grants to charities, Later life inclusion
Musical Connections
Musical Connections received £10,000 to help isolated older people to lead happier, healthier lives through participating in music.
The charity currently runs eight inclusive music-making sessions and two community choirs in care homes, sheltered housing, community centres and GP surgeries across York.
Barriers to maintaining relationships
Many older people have poor physical or mental health, including dementia, mobility issues or learning disabilities which have made it difficult to maintain relationships. Many of those taking part have also been bereaved and are lacking in confidence.
All of these factors can make it very difficult for them to get out and spend time with other people, putting them at risk of social isolation and loneliness.
Creating musical connections
Musical Connections sessions create a safe environment which allows people from different backgrounds and abilities to learn a new skill and make new friends along the way.
In a recent survey, 90% of participants reported that MC events and sessions gave them an opportunity to make increased contact with the wider community
Health benefits
As well as bringing socially isolated people together, Musical Connections also offers other health benefits. The survey also revealed that:
- 76% of participants believe that taking part in sessions improves their physical wellbeing
- 90% of participants say that their MC sessions help them to feel more alert and active
In the words of one participant:
Coming to Musical Connections makes us feel alive. There can be days when we just sit at home and don’t speak to anyone, not even on the phone. The more you come, the better it gets, and the more important it becomes.
