Dementia patients on the Aston Unit at Congleton War Memorial Hospital are experiencing “newfound joy and comfort” thanks to the innovative efforts of a local volunteer.
Jane Arzoni, a mother-of-two from North Rode, began volunteering at the hospital after moving back to the UK in January 2024. Following a decade in the USA, she said she returned with “a deep appreciation” for the NHS and a desire to give back.
After dementia training with East Cheshire NHS Trust’s Admiral Nurse Laura Birch, Ms Arzoni was introduced to the benefits of music and hand massage for dementia patients, sparking an idea to combine music, aromatherapy, and hand massage therapies.
She said: “Having experienced the healthcare system in the USA and how expensive it is, I realised how much the NHS is taken for granted.
“This motivated me to give back to the NHS in some way and when we moved back to England, I applied to be a volunteer.
“I chose Congleton because it’s slightly closer to my home and when I discovered more about Aston Unit, I was very pleased, as I had hoped to work with older patients.”
She added: “I think older people can sometimes be forgotten and I hate to think of any elderly person feeling lonely or anxious. From the outset my goal was to make a positive difference in at least one person’s day through my volunteering work.”
With a 1950s playlist, a portable speaker and hand lotion infused with relaxing essential oils, she offers soothing hand massages to dementia patients.
“During the training, Laura mentioned the benefits of music and hand massage for people dealing with dementia,” Ms Arzoni added. “This was the spark that gave me some ideas on how I could contribute to my volunteer role.
“After doing further research, I set out to combine three different types of therapy that studies have found can help people living with dementia – music, aromatherapy and hand massage.
“Every patient is different, with their own individual needs and I continue to learn as I spend more time on the unit, but usually there is a visible change in demeanour, which could be a warm smile, a nod of acknowledgment or a sigh of relief.
“The response has been very positive, and I hope it makes a difference. It’s incredibly heartwarming when patients sing along to the music or applaud after each song. There has even been dancing!”
Aston’s senior sister Jo Hodgkinson said: “Jane’s dedication and innovative methods have not only brought comfort to the patients but have also highlighted the importance of personalised care in enhancing the quality of life for those living with dementia.
“Her efforts continue to make a significant difference at the Aston Unit, bringing joy and relief to many. We are extremely grateful to have her with us.”
Ms Arzoni, who is one of nearly 200 volunteers at the trust, added: “All the staff on Aston Unit do such a wonderful job and hopefully I play a small part in supplementing their fantastic care with something a little different to help brighten the day.
“I hope the work I do lifts the spirits of patients and creates a warm and soothing atmosphere. If my role can help a patient to feel more comforted, calm and little bit extra special during the time I spend with them, that would be amazing!”
(Photo: ECNHS).
