Residents at Astley View Care Home in Chorley revisited the music of their younger years during a Motown reminiscence session, held in the main café as part of the home’s Black History Month activities.
The session began with a quiz about the artists, songs and groups that made Motown famous. Residents tested their knowledge before learning more about Motown Records, its founder Berry Gordy and the label’s contribution to Black music and popular culture.
Music from The Jackson 5, Diana Ross and The Supremes provided the soundtrack, with residents sharing memories as they listened. The familiar songs gave people something to talk about, while the history behind the music offered something new to discover.
Music can be a valuable starting point for reminiscence. A tune or lyric can bring back a particular time, place or person, opening up conversations that might not otherwise happen. Listening together also gives residents a way to enjoy each other’s company, including those who prefer to listen rather than join the discussion.
At Astley View Care Home , we include residents’ interests and experiences in our activities, alongside opportunities to learn and try something new. The Motown session brought both together, celebrating the music and its history while making time for residents’ own memories.
