The people of Lahti’s Esperi Hoivakoti Launee have taken over the local bar and are waiting for the karaoke to start. Music is an important tool for nursing home staff in caring for people with dementia.
The small suburban cupola Laune Bari has been filled to the brim with people from the nearby nursing home Esper. More than 40 residents of the nursing home and their escorts have arrived and the karaoke can begin.
It’s not the first time Esper’s people are on the move, as they’ve been enjoying karaoke twice before. Now an exceptionally large number of people went along, because the event had to be postponed due to strict corona restrictions.
The trip is an effort for the nursing home.
– A large part of the residents come in a wheelchair or with a walker. Nobody is allowed to leave alone without an escort, explains Julkunen.
Therefore, it would not have been possible to organize karaoke on our own, but in addition to the owner of the bar, volunteers from Telia have been brought in to help.
The feeling is transmitted, even if you can’t speak
A large part of the residents of the nursing home there are memory sufferers. This does not prevent you from enjoying the music and the event that breaks your everyday routine.
– You can see from the expressions and gestures that music touches everyone. This has been expected, and this will be remembered for a long time, says Kaija Julkunen.
– It may be that I sing. It’s a bit of a feeling thing, he says with a smile.
When asked about his favorite song, Risto becomes thoughtful.
– Now, when you ask so suddenly, I’m really mad. There are so many good songs, laughs Risto.
Music helps in nursing work
The positive effect of music can be seen practically in nursing care for people with dementia.
– Some residents can be aggressive at times. We have noticed that, for example, by humming evergreens, the morning chores can be done more easily. It helps to create contact with the residents, says Julkunen.
The afternoon event built around karaoke will be continued at the care home in Lahti.
– Next time we’ll probably have to go to a dance stage, because not everyone who wants to fit in here anymore, laughs the director of the care home, Kaija Julkunen.