Piano donation brings joy

The residents of Elliscombe House enjoy frequent musical entertainment, including piano and flute recitals. Following the recent generous donation of a piano to the home they can now enjoy even more music, with added benefits for their health and wellbeing.

The positive effects of music on the brain and general wellbeing have been known for some time and include reduced anxiety and stress, and improved cognitive performance. This is one of the reasons why music plays such a significant part in our activities programme.

For our talented residents who can play a musical instrument there are more benefits, as a study by researchers from the University of Exeter and reported in The Independent in January 2024 found that playing an instrument throughout life is linked with improved brain health in older age.  

Researchers found that playing any musical instrument, but especially the piano, is linked to improved memory and the ability to solve complex tasks, also known as executive function. Margaret is a pianist, and is overjoyed that she is now able to play again thanks to the wonderful donation by a friend of a resident.  We are all looking forward to hearing her play.