A Life Enriched by Music & the Arts
At The Aldbury, music and the arts are woven into the daily rhythm of life in our dementia care homes. From familiar songs to gentle painting, creative expression helps residents reconnect with themselves and others, even when words are hard to find.
Led by trained professionals and supported by our in-home teams, every interaction is thoughtful, reassuring, and tailored to the person.
Why Music and Art Matter in Dementia Care
Music and the arts offer far more than entertainment. For someone living with dementia, they can unlock memories long thought unreachable, offer comfort in times of confusion, and gently restore a sense of self. A familiar melody may bring a smile before words can, while a brushstroke or rhythm can express what conversation no longer can.
These creative experiences help residents connect, with their own story, with those around them, and with the present moment. They promote calm, encourage expression, and offer reassurance through familiarity and rhythm. Even when language fades, music, movement, and colour remain—quietly bridging the space between memory and emotion.
More Than an Activity – Part of Daily Life
Creativity isn’t reserved for special occasions. In our homes, it’s part of how we care.
You might walk past a lounge and hear singing, see someone sketching a seaside memory, or notice the quiet focus of a resident arranging flowers. These moments are part of the natural flow of each day, familiar, calming, and personal.
Our approach includes:
- One-to-one music and arts sessions for comfort and connection
- Group singing, rhythm, and movement to lift energy and mood
- Creative arts such as painting, drama, poetry, and storytelling
- Gentle encouragement and space for expression at each person’s pace
“The whole room was involved in Fiona’s class and everyone was obviously enjoying themselves. Everyone could join in!” – Ruth, visitor to a Colten Care home
A Personal Approach, Always
We take time to understand what resonates with each person, musical preferences, creative passions, treasured memories. Whether someone once sang in a choir, danced to wartime tunes, or loved to paint, we build on those interests with sensitivity and care.
Families are welcome to share favourite songs, stories, or artistic interests to help us tailor each experience.
Led by Our Music & Arts Partner
Fiona Pritchard, our Music and Arts Partner, brings both professional training and heartfelt insight. With a Master’s in Dementia Studies with Arts and Activities, Fiona works closely with each of our homes to shape experiences that are enriching, therapeutic, and deeply respectful.
Her tailored sessions include:
- Singing and rhythm activities that energise and unite
- Personalised listening and calming musical routines
- Creative storytelling, poetry, and memory-inspired art
- Support for staff and families to continue the experience
Fiona’s work is grounded in research and delivered with warmth.
Inviting The Best Local Performers To Entertain Us
In addition to the support and engagement provided by Fiona, we regularly invite performers into the home to delight our residents.
Our home’s Companionship Team is well connected with popular local performers. They regularly organise scheduled visits by musicians and entertainers who are used to performing for people living in a care home setting.
We maintain a central database of professionals that helps us ensure each team has access to the most enjoyable and popular performers. We listen to the feedback from residents to make sure their favourite artists return regularly!
“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” – Pablo Picasso
More Highlights from The Aldbury
What Sets Us Apart
Our main focus on dementia care allows us to offer unparalleled level of expertise, understanding and support for both residents and their families.
Every Aspects of our care, from our team’s knowledge to the layout of our home, is designed to provide comfort, safety, and meaningful engagement.
Meet The Team
Find out more about our dedicated team of compassionate individuals who are committed to providing the highest standards of clinical and social care to our residents. From our Carers to our Chef and Gardener, to our Housekeeping team and Nurses, each member plays a vital role in our ‘One Team’ approach, where residents are at the heart of everything we do.
Dementia Friendly Facilities
At The Aldbury Dementia Care Home in Poole, our purpose-built home is designed specifically to meet the needs of those living with dementia. Every aspect of the home is thoughtfully laid out to provide a safe, stimulating, and homely environment, helping residents maintain their independence and feel at ease.
Help & Advice
We can assist with any questions you may have with regards to paying for care, the process of moving in to our home, as well as the key things to look for in your search for a care home.
Not sure what the next step looks like?
Whether you have questions, want to visit, or just need a friendly chat, we’re here whenever you’re ready.