THERE was something to sing about this week for those people who suffer from dementia and those who care for them.

The inaugural meeting of 'Singing for the Brain group run by the Alzheimer's Society took place at Tavistock United Reformed Church.

Funded through the 'People's Millions' lottery monies, the group is designed to be a fun, stimulating and social activity for people in the early to moderate stages of dementia and their carers.

Although singing is a big part of the service it is not essential that volunteers can sing. Participation, enthusiasm and a desire to help people with dementia is all that is wanted.

Sally Ellis, the volunteer officer for the society, said: 'The idea of today is raise awareness of the Alzheimer's Society and set up a 'Singing for the Brain' group here in Tavistock for people with dementia, their carers and those who wish to volunteer.'

The society is looking to set up a regular group in Tavistock within the next couple of months — although times and a venue is yet to be confirmed. It is open to anyone, however, people with a particular interest in either volunteering or leading the group are especially welcome.

Tavistock will be the eighth such group in Devon for 'Singing for the Brain' and the methods used are all tried and tested.

To stimulate those with dementia there are 'action songs' to encourage movement (with familiar tunes), tongue twisters and breathing exercises and much more.

Sarah Chapman, who takes similar groups in Plymouth, Paignton and Dartmouth, told the Times: It's all about stretching the brain and the memory.

'Each activity we do is done for a reason.

'We look to help stimulate the brain with activities and keep people moving — even those who are sitting down!

'The singing and music is co-ordinated to exercising the brain with movements to link left and right. The emphasis though is very much on people having fun and each exercise is always done with a laugh.'

With the majority of people suffering from dementia being aged above 50, the music is organised so that everyone taking part is familiar with the tunes.

One lady who came along to the induction day to consider volunteering was Sue Peabody from Tavistock, whose mother suffers from the disease.

She said: 'My late father went to a similar group and he absolutely loved it so I welcome such a group to Tavistock.'

June Wildman from Tavistock Memory Cafe. which has done much to help dementia sufferers and carers in West Devon, added: 'Tavistock Memory Cafe has been very active for five years, finding different ways to provide cognitive stimulation for those with dementia as well as provide support for their carers.

'We welcome any facility, such as this from the Alzheimer's Society, which will help those suffering from dementia.'

If you would like information on 'Singing For the Brain' group call Sally Ellis on 01752 608 911 or 07889 604537 or email her on [email protected]">[email protected]