How Music Keeps Us Active and Connected

At Renaissance Care, wellbeing goes far beyond physical health. It’s about creating joy, connection and purpose in every day. That’s why, as one of the early adopters of danceSing, Renaissance Care has led the way in using innovative, evidence-based tools to bring music, movement and meaningful connection to every resident, wherever they are on their wellbeing journey.

As we move into the winter months, with shorter days and longer evenings, staying active and emotionally connected becomes even more important. And music, as research and real-life experience show, is one of the most powerful ways to achieve this.

Through the danceSing On Air the only radio station created for older adults and our digital platform, every Renaissance Care home can access live and on-demand music sessions, sing-alongs and concerts designed to engage all abilities.

Natalie Garry, CEO and founder danceSing

The Science of Sound and Memory

Music is uniquely wired into the human brain. Unlike speech, which activates a single region, music engages multiple areas simultaneously, emotion, memory, movement and reward.

For those living with dementia or cognitive decline, familiar songs can act as a bridge to the past. Studies show that hearing well-loved music can trigger vivid memories, calm agitation, and reignite moments of recognition and connection that might otherwise seem lost.
At Renaissance Care, staff often describe these moments as “little miracles” when a resident who rarely speaks suddenly joins in a familiar chorus, or a smile lights up their face as the opening notes of an old favourite play.

Lifting Mood and Combating Winter Blues

The colder months can be challenging for many older adults, particularly when natural light and outdoor activity are limited. Music offers a natural antidote to the winter dip in mood by stimulating dopamine and serotonin, the brain’s “feel good” chemicals.
At danceSing, our approach blends active participation and gentle movement with uplifting musical experiences. Whether residents sing along, tap their toes, or simply listen, the effect is restorative. Even passive listening to familiar, joyful songs can reduce anxiety, slow heart rate, and increase overall wellbeing.

Through the danceSing On Air the only radio station created for older adults and our digital platform, every Renaissance Care home can access live and on-demand music sessions, sing-alongs and concerts designed to engage all abilities. It’s accessible, inclusive and full of positive energy, exactly what’s needed during the darker days of winter.

Connection Through Community and Shared Joy

At its heart, music connects people. Group sing-alongs and musical activities within Renaissance Care homes are more than just entertainment, they are moments of community, belonging and shared joy.

When residents sing together, something special happens, social barriers dissolve, laughter flows, and people feel part of something bigger. Care teams often tell us that these sessions spark conversations and friendships that continue long after the music ends.
Our Christmas resources are a highlight every year, a time for celebration, nostalgia and togetherness. The carols and classics chosen for these sessions are carefully selected for their ability to unite all generations, residents, staff and families alike, through shared memory and emotion.

Behind the Music – How We Curate and Collaborate

Every playlist and session in danceSing is built with intention. We select songs that are familiar, uplifting and inclusive, using research from music therapy, neuroscience and gerontology.
Lyrics are displayed in large, easy-to-read formats, and sessions can be streamed via tablet, television or danceSing On Air radio, where the music changes to refect the time of day and even the light to ensuring everyone can take part, and feel connected, whether individually or in a group setting.

We also work closely with Renaissance Care’s wellbeing teams to tailor content that reflects residents’ preferences from 1940s jazz to 1970s classics. This collaboration ensures that every note resonates with meaning and joy.

A Trusted Partnership in Wellbeing

Renaissance Care recognised early the immense value of integrating danceSing into daily life across its homes. As early adopter’s post-pandemic, the group demonstrated vision and leadership in embracing digital wellbeing tools that enhance both resident and staff morale.

Today, danceSing is not just an activity, it’s part of the rhythm of daily life in Renaissance Care homes. A trusted core resource supporting mental, emotional and physical health for all.

 

Final Thoughts

Music has the power to move us, physically, emotionally and socially. It can awaken memory, lift mood, and create moments of joy and connection that last long after the final note.
As we head into the festive season, Renaissance Care’s commitment to innovative, heart-led wellbeing reminds us that the best care is about enriching lives. One song, one smile, and one shared moment at a time.