Music against loneliness: Bremen's dementia choir Goldkehlchen inspires!

Music against loneliness: Bremen's dementia choir Goldkehlchen inspires!

A very special project has been established in Bremen that not only hears the voices of people with dementia, but also touches hearts. The dementia choir Goldkehlchen, founded by the committed singer and singing teacher Stefanie Golisch, opens up a community space for those affected and their relatives. Since May 2023, the members have been rehearsing every two weeks on Mondays in the Landhaus Horn foundation residence, where they can not only sing, but also talk to each other and enjoy a cup of coffee. The choir is supported by the Bremer Heimstiftung and the Bremen Community Foundation as part of the “Hand in Hand in Northern Germany” program.

Golisch, who has a personal connection to the topic of dementia as her grandmother was affected by it, emphasizes the positive impact of music on participants. They talk about how many remember familiar melodies and lyrics, which gives them a feeling of normality and joy. “Singing promotes memories and emotional connections,” says Golisch with a smile. The choir currently has around 20 members who sing folk songs, hits and simple two-part pieces. Emphasis is placed on a physical warm-up and vocal exercises, which enriches the entire experience.

Community and support

A central goal of the Goldkehlchen Choir is to break isolation and increase the quality of life of people with dementia. The choir offers a protected space for encounters, not only for those affected, but also for relatives. According to the German Alzheimer Society, around 1.8 million people live with dementia in Germany. Projects like Goldkehlchen are therefore particularly valuable and help to promote the social commitment of those affected and their families.

The exchange with each other and the opportunity to have conversations during rehearsals are important elements that help the participants feel less alone. Future public appearances by the choir are also planned, but without any pressure on the members. “I would like the choir to continue to grow and show the potential of music and community,” emphasizes Golisch.

Various music projects to support

What is particularly noteworthy is that Goldkehlchen is part of a larger network of projects that support the fight against loneliness in Bremen. As part of the “Hand in Hand for Northern Germany” campaign, a total of almost 375,000 euros were made available for 22 projects dedicated to improving the quality of life of people with dementia. These projects not only relate to singing, but also to various creative approaches to strengthening community and togetherness.

Speaking of creative approaches: From January 2025, 22 new music projects will start nationwide under the program “Fit longer through music!” be promoted. These initiatives not only offer financial support, but also practical training to optimize the way we deal with people with dementia. The funding comes from the Federal Ministry for Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ) and is a sign that music plays a central role in social inclusion and joy of life.

Overall, it shows that music and community are key to a better life for people with dementia and their families. The Goldkehlchen dementia choir and similar projects are more than just singing groups - they are rays of hope in everyday life and offer hope for connection and joy.

Further information about the project can be found on the website Spot Bremen, Bremen Community Foundation as well as to consider the nationwide development on the platform National Dementia Strategy.