Alzheimer’s Society's Singing for the Brain South Wales groups perform in Cardiff Bay

The performance will be taking place on Friday 25 May 2012 at the Pierhead Building in Cardiff Bay between 11am and 12.15pm

Singing for the Brain® is a popular social activity for people who are living with dementia, their family and carers. The activity is designed to promote confidence and enhance the well-being of those affected by memory problems. It provides essential social interaction and therapeutic qualities.

Lesley Thomas, Locality Manager for Alzheimer's Society in Gwent explained how the sessions can help both people with dementia and their carers:

'People with dementia who have language and communication difficulties may find that well-known songs can evoke verbal and emotional memories. Singing for the Brain® builds on the preserved memory for song and music, which is often the last part of the brain to be affected by dementia. Even when memories are hard to retrieve, music can often still be recalled.

'Music helps to create an environment in which people with dementia can express positive feelings and emotions. Singing helps to stimulate more conscious breathing and, combined with hand percussion and actions, gives opportunities for gentle exercise. Families and carers can strengthen existing relationships and build new friendships, share experiences and find support and inclusion.'

Alzheimer's Society is inviting members of the public to come along to the free event to enjoy listening to some singing or even join in whilst finding out more about Singing for the Brain® and dementia in general.

This Dementia Awareness Week™ Alzheimer's Society is encouraging people to 'remember the person' by looking beyond someone's diagnosis and engaging with them. The charity is encouraging people to learn more about dementia by promoting five things everyone should know about dementia - key lessons include dementia is not a natural part of ageing and it's possible to live well with dementia.

Events will be taking place across Wales throughout Dementia Awareness Week™. To find out more visit: www.alzheimers.org.uk/remembertheperson