Preventing Dementia with a song and dance

The health watchdog, NICE, has encouraged that the elderly take part in a choir group and other activities for preventing dementia. You can read the article from The Telegraph.
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Preventing Dementia with a song and dance

The health watchdog, NICE, has encouraged that the elderly take part in a choir group and other activities for preventing dementia.

You can read the article from The Telegraph.

NICE are suggesting that pensioners should join choirs, read to young children and partake in other similar activities for preventing dementia and loneliness. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence also argue that older people should be offered more activities for their health and happiness.

The advice comes after many studies about the benefits of activities in maintaining health and independence.

The benefit of activities

There is evidence, that singing particularly; lowers stress, relieves anxiety and elevates endorphin levels. NICE looked at the mental well-being of people who were involved in group singing courses and found that choir members had increased happiness levels. Of course it’s unknown whether or not it’s the singing or the socialisation of the group activity that is bringing this happiness – or a mix of both.

Other beneficial activities to get involved in for mental well-being are arts and crafts and walking groups. It’s also suggested by NICE that inter-generational activities are important for preventing dementia. These may be helping young people and children in schools or elderly people getting support from young people to learn technologies. Getting to grips with technology is great for maintaining friendships and therefore helping fight loneliness.

Let loved ones know

In many cases loneliness can be linked to the onset of dementia, with people who are lonely being more likely to be admitted to residential or nursing care.

If you are concerned about a loved one and want to help them in preventing dementia, try to encourage them to join groups, help out at local schools, learn a new skills and even offer some time to volunteering. Feel free to show a relative or loved one this article for some ideas that they may like!

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