Finding Joy and Purpose through Singing: Giving Voice to People Living with Dementia

Abstract

For every individual living with dementia, the experience is unique. When you meet one person living with dementia, you have simply met one person. Dementia will change many things about life—but not all at once and often over many years. For many people, social isolation and loneliness may emerge as mental health challenges occur. This is when creating supportive interconnections are particularly critical to build meaning and purpose. Giving Voice Chorus was created in 2014 to address social isolation for people living with dementia. Our choruses, and other like-minded ones throughout the United States and the world, support new networks for people living with dementia, as well as their family members and friends. This is a behind-the-scenes story of how Giving Voice Chorus and a strong collection of similar choruses help meet cultural, social, geographic, and community needs for people who are determined to continue vibrant, creative lives with memory loss. We explore how these choruses developed and the creative lifeline they provide for individuals and families. For health-care professionals and others seeking resources and referrals, Giving Voice Chorus is a beacon of light—establishing new supportive networks with hope and affirmation.