Isolating residents raise the roof with virtual singalongs

Retirement living communities managed by Care Plus have been filled with song in recent days as hundreds of residents take part in virtual singalongs led by professional entertainer, Kenyon Walker.

Kenyon has been visiting some of the communities since last year, with singing sessions backed by Care Plus and South Staffordshire Council. Now, as older people stay safe at home, the singing get-togethers have gone online.

The sociable singers now harmonise their afternoons by joining the live Facebook singalongs, raising the roof and lifting spirits with some of their favourite tunes. Kenyon keeps in touch with regular singers (and quite a few dancers, too) by dedicating songs and sharing messages.

Director of care and support, Les Clarke, said that the virtual workshops were hitting the right note for anxious older people: “These are really difficult times for our residents, who are at greater risk of developing severe symptoms of coronavirus. They are staying safe, in their own homes and our lively social lounges are temporarily closed. Isolation can become very lonely and we are delighted that so many of our residents are connecting through song.”

Resident Rose Simpson has been joining in the sessions: “It’s lovely to get together online, while we stay at home,” she said. “I’m really enjoying singing along with everyone else; it gives me something to look forward to.”

The singalongs are open to everyone and are attracting up to 1,000 people at a time, uniting isolating singers far and wide.

If you would like to join the singalong sessions, visit Kenyon’s Facebook page here.