A CARE home has been alive with the sound of music this week.

Sandringham Care Home, in Bishop Auckland, has held a series of activities based on a musicals theme throughout Dementia Awareness Week.

On Wednesday, theatre company Act One Productions performed The Wizard of Oz for residents.

The theme continued on Friday when residents enjoyed a quiz and a singalong.

Staff also dressed as characters from their favourite shows, including activities coordinators Siobhan Viggars who was the Wicked Witch of the West and Mamma Mia fan Emma Mundy wore an Abba costume.

Mrs Viggars said: “We like to have fun in the home all the time but this week has been about raising awareness of dementia and holding interactive, stimulating and entertaining activities.

"It was nice for them to remember old favourites, like The Sound of Music and Oliver.

“It is about more than just entertainment but keeps the brains going, is sociable and more interesting than sitting around.

“Studies have shown these things help keep helps older people stay in touch with the world.”

Throughout Dementia Awareness Week the Alzheimer's Society aims to educate people about the progressive disease, which leads to memory loss, encourage people to talk about their fears, seek support and stay positive.