The Chemnitz Theatre is launching a new concert format for people with dementia and their relatives. Under the title "Raum für Resonanz", well-known melodies such as Mozart's Little Night Music and songs like "Alle Vögel sind schon da" will be performed this Friday (March 20). Singing along is expressly encouraged.
According to the German Alzheimer Society, more than 1.8 million people in Germany live with dementia; in Saxony, there are around 104,000 over the age of 65. The likelihood of developing dementia increases with age.
Music is generally regarded as a "silver bullet" for gaining access to people with dementia, explained Susanna Saxl-Reisen, Deputy Managing Director of the Alzheimer's Society. The music memory is located differently in the brain than the general long-term memory. "It is retained for much longer, even with dementia."
It is also about social participation. "Moving around in public spaces, entering a concert hall and experiencing music together with other people is something that can no longer be taken for granted with dementia and can convey a sense of belonging."
