Hospital:
‘Just a Song at Twilight’ was a project at Brighton General Hospital for Brighton &
Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust (BSUHT). Initially it was a pilot study working with frail older
patients - many with dementia. Following the success of the initial pilot scheme a six month project was commissioned by BSUHT for several hospital wards.
I loved these projects and here I’ll share a few memories with you:
- The very ill patient who I could see was just moving a little finger in time to the music and who loved being sung lullabies to.
- The nurses who were shy to begin with but who all gathered around the music stand and joined in with the patients. We had a choir at one stage.
- The nurses who started singing with the patients during bathing and personal care.
- The mountains of memories evoked by songs of a bygone era; these memories then shared with others leading to more social interaction.
To see more on other hospital projects please go to Children and
Stroke Patients. I am indebted to members of the Arts Advisory Board, BSUHT, for making possible these innovative arts-in-healthcare initiatives. In particular my special thanks and gratitude to Jeni Sharpstone, Chair and visionary, and Lee Soden, former Director of Facilities and Capital Development, for their creative thought and encouragement.
“Very valuable – good treatment for depression – patients forget about their disease and hospital environment. Would be good to see more in patients with severe diseases (cancer etc).” Hospital Physician
“We are pleased to see our mother enjoying your music. Please carry on. You are much appreciated” Visitor (daughter)
“Extremely valuable. The most cheerful I have seen the patients in a long time. Very important mental stimulation.” Doctor
“Brings some diversity and change to ward life. Good for patients as it really seemed to perk them up and give them enjoyment. Created a nice atmosphere and visitors were happy to see relatives enjoying themselves.” Nurse
“Lovely. Your approach to all the patients was very appropriate. From personal observations everyone seemed to be listening and enjoying. It brought many smiles, finger tapping and foot tapping. Thank you so much for your kindness. I personally thought that what you did was a very lovely thing. Your voice and music were lovely and I personally really enjoyed listening – keep up the good work.” Visiting relative
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Contact Lou
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