MUSICIANS are being sought to strike a chord with patients on Great Western Hospital’s new dementia-friendly ward.

The hospital would like to hear from artists of all ages and talents to volunteer to perform at the Jupiter unit.

In November the ward was completely refurbished as part of a £98,000 project, funded by GWH charity Brighter Futures, which saw it transformed into a state-of-the-art, dementia-friendly environment.

Wendy Johnson, divisional matron for care of the older person and the matron lead for dementia, said: “It is well known that music has both a physical and psychological therapeutic effect.

“As an acute care environment we are always looking for ways we can make the in-patient experience more interesting and enjoyable.”

Listening to live music can calm patients and research has also shown that dementia patients who are at ease will be more likely to eat their meals, sleep better at night and have an improved immune system.

And performing could also provide a good opportunity for artists to raise their profile and support the community.

The hospital is looking for performances that would last between around one and two hours with a music style that would appeal to older people.

The Jupiter Ward has a non-shiny matt floor, which will help prevent dementia patients from falling as they can often confuse shiny surfaces with pools of water.

Other changes include installing special clocks that say whether it is day or night, fitting nursing stations inside each bay so that staff can reach patients quicker and using coloured plates at meal times, as dementia patients can often overlook pale food such as potatoes and bread on white plates.

Wendy said: “These discreet features make a big difference and help us to give patients the dignity and independence they need and deserve.”

Any bands or musicians interested in volunteering can call Wendy on 01793 607333 or email wendy.johnson@gwh.nhs.uk for more information.