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Drumming seniors in Cologne: joy and rhythm for dementia sufferers!
At the Clarenbachwerk in Lindenthal, seniors with dementia meet to play drums. Open event promotes joy and well-being.
Drumming seniors in Cologne: joy and rhythm for dementia sufferers!
A very special event is taking place today at the Clarenbachwerk in Cologne-Müngersdorf: the “Veedelstrommler”, which was created specifically for people with dementia. Every two weeks, music therapist Jochen Ten Hoevel leads this joyful gathering, which aims to promote the well-being and joy of the participants. The events are open to all Cologne residents, so everyone is invited to whirl and drum.
At the event, the hall in Haus Andreas is filled to capacity. Many guests live in the nearby Heinrich-Püschel-Haus, and you can feel the hustle and bustle. “The louder, the better” could be seen as the motto, as the music and rhythm seem to make the faces of everyone present light up. One participant, senior Frans De Becker, brings his daughter and says he used to play the guitar. For him and many others, it is a welcome change in everyday life.
Music as a key to emotions
Franziska Heidemann from the “Long fit through music” funding program emphasizes that music addresses emotional and cognitive areas of the brain, which is particularly important for people with dementia. Jochen Ten Hoevel emphasizes that participants do not have to remember lyrics or melodies when drumming, which lowers the barrier to participation. The rhythm arises spontaneously, and the participants often communicate through body language.
The feedback from the Heinrich Püschel House is consistently positive. Andrea Wehlert, the manager of the house, reports on the remarkable developments of the participants, who are making visible progress through regular drumming. The Clarenbachwerk plans to establish the “Veedeltrommler” as an integral part of their program.
Joint discussions and exchange for relatives
In addition to the musical offerings, the Heinrich Püschel House also offers a monthly discussion group on the topic of “Living with Dementia”. Relatives and interested parties are warmly invited to share their experiences. The next event will take place on Friday, November 21st, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Participation is free and registration is not necessary. For more information, please call 0221-4985-8070 or email tagespflege.hph@clarenbachwerk.de.
Music is more than just sound – it is a universal language that goes beyond words. In a protected space like the Clarenbachwerk, not only the seniors but also their relatives experience an unforgettable afternoon. It turns out that the power of music can bring people together, regardless of limitations.