Finding Harmony at Seaview Nursing Home

At Cardinal Healthcare, we have always recognised that a life well lived is a life filled with opportunities for enrichment, expression, and connection. Nowhere is this more evident than at Seaview Nursing Home, where music is woven into the very fabric of daily life. Amongst the bright lounges and tranquil sea views, a beloved sound often drifts on the breeze: the joyful playing of the keyboard by our residents. This cherished activity not only fills the air with melody but also brings countless benefits for mind, body, and spirit.

The Power of Music in Later Life

For many, music is a lifeline—a means of reminiscing, connecting, and sharing joy. In residential care settings like Seaview Nursing Home, music therapy and structured musical activities play a crucial role in promoting holistic wellbeing. The act of playing the keyboard transcends age or ability, providing immediate pleasure, gentle cognitive challenge, and the chance to relive favourite memories.

Studies and real-world experience alike show that engaging with music can bring measurable improvements to:

• Mood and mental health: Uplifting melodies trigger positive emotions, alleviate symptoms of anxiety or depression, and foster a sense of accomplishment.

• Cognitive health: Learning new songs or recalling old tunes stimulates the brain, enhancing memory, concentration, and coordination.

• Physical wellbeing: Finger dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills are all given a gentle workout through regular keyboard practice.

A Typical Afternoon: Music-Making at Seaview

Picture a sunlit lounge at Seaview Nursing Home—residents gathered round, eagerly anticipating the afternoon’s activity. One sits at the keyboard, hands poised, sometimes accompanied by fellow residents singing their hearts out, or others tapping along with feet and hands. Whether playing solo or as part of a joyful group, even the simplest tune transforms the room.

Sessions are structured to suit everyone:

• Beginner-friendly approach: For novices, our activities coordinator introduces simple scales, familiar songs, and encouraging guidance.

• Personal choice: Residents are invited to request their favourite numbers—everything from classic singalongs to gentle waltzes.

• Adaptive support: Our team provides adjusted seating or large-print sheet music for those with physical or visual challenges, ensuring no one is left out.

Benefits Beyond the Music

Music at Seaview isn’t just about the performance; it is about the connections forged and the memories awakened.

• Social cohesion: Keyboard sessions break the ice between new residents and foster friendships, as music becomes a shared language.

• Reminiscence and comfort: Older songs spark conversations about ‘the old days,’ weddings, or dances, helping residents reconnect with cherished events or loved ones.

• Family involvement: Relatives often visit during music hour, joining in the singing or simply enjoying watching their loved ones’ talents unfold.

How Playing the Keyboard Supports Cognitive and Emotional Health

Maintaining an active mind is central to healthy ageing. Keyboard music is particularly effective for cognitive stimulation, encouraging planning, sequencing, and recall. For residents living with dementia, music often reaches across the fog of memory, providing clarity and joy in the present moment.

The emotional impact can be just as profound. Residents frequently share how music helps express feelings that words sometimes fail to capture—be it nostalgia, comfort, or spontaneous happiness.

Tailored to Suit Every Resident

At Seaview, personalisation is the heartbeat of our activity programme:

• Residents who once played professionally are encouraged to share their skills, sometimes putting on impromptu concerts.

• Beginners receive gentle one-to-one support, learning at their own pace.

• Those who are hesitant at first quickly discover that ability is less important than participation, enjoyment, and the welcoming, non-judgemental atmosphere.

For some, simply sitting alongside and listening is enough; for others, mastering a song they love brings fresh pride. Our staff are always on hand, offering support, encouragement, and, occasionally, a round of enthusiastic applause!

Expanding the Benefits: Alongside Other Activities

Music complements the diverse activity programme at Seaview Nursing Home, which also includes arts and crafts, gardening, gentle exercise, and reminiscence sessions. Each resident is free to choose what appeals most, but the keyboard remains a constant favourite.

Regular events:

• Weekly musical afternoons

• Seasonal musical performances involving visiting musicians or family guests

• ‘Memory Lane’ singalong sessions, focusing on tunes from the 1940s, ‘50s, and beyond

These shared experiences build a sense of community, spark laughter, and bring lightness to everyday routines.

Creating an Environment for Musical Enjoyment

Every care has been taken to provide residents at Seaview with a comfortable, accessible, and inspiring setting for their musical pursuits. The communal lounge is filled with natural light and equipped with a high-quality digital keyboard placed at the heart of the space. Sheet music, songbooks, and lyrics are kept within easy reach, and the team is always open to expanding the repertoire based on resident preferences.

To maximise participation and wellbeing, all staff receive training in leading musical activities and understanding the power of music for residents living with memory loss or sensory impairment.

In Their Own Words: Resident Reflections

“Playing the keyboard brings me right back to my youth,” shares one long-term resident. “I never thought I would play again, but each week I remember a little more and feel a bit stronger.”

Another laughs, “Even if my fingers forget a note or two, the group keeps me going. It’s the best hour of my week!”

Family members echo the sentiment, noting how music seems to unlock new energy in their loved ones, sparking stories, movement, and, above all, smiles.

Why We Celebrate Music at Seaview Nursing Home

At Cardinal Healthcare, we believe that nurturing the whole person—body, mind, and soul—is the foundation for a life of dignity and joy. Music, and especially the act of playing the keyboard, is a cornerstone of our approach at Seaview Nursing Home.

Our commitment is simple:

• To offer engaging activities rooted in residents’ interests and abilities

• To create truly homely spaces, alive with the sound of laughter, conversation, and melody

• To empower every individual to rediscover and celebrate their unique talents, whatever their stage in life