Music for dementia care
“Where words fail, music speaks.” – Hans Christian Andersen
Music is universally loved, and for good reason. It brings people together across cultures, languages, generations, and identities. For those with dementia, music can be particularly important. Music for dementia care offers support and an alternative form of communication. It can redirect moods, help set a routine, and evoke familiar memories. But why is it that music is so beneficial? And how can it help us connect with our loved ones?
Music for memory
Music communicates differently from words, and different songs can evoke old memories. It can be helpful with recall, as certain chords and melodies can incite an emotional response. We all have that one song we can never forget, sometimes even going back to our childhood lullabies.
Brain imaging has shown that by listening to familiar music, we can strengthen neural connections that are linked to memory and attention. As dementia progresses, it can be hard to understand verbal communication, as the brain areas for language become damaged. But whilst comprehension can become difficult, emotional understanding is still integral to the person.
By using music, we can keep those with dementia better involved in the conversation, expressing feelings that words can perhaps no longer convey. This can better help those with dementia in social interactions. It can combat feelings of isolation and sharing an experience over songs.
Music for routine
Music can be added to dementia care routines, with research suggesting that personalised music can help reduce agitation and even enhance sleep. A tailored playlist is one of the most effective ways to use music, as familiarity with the songs can spur positive emotions.
You can use music to structure the day, with different melodies for different routines. It can be helpful to start the day with upbeat music, helping start the day in good spirits. Soft instrumental music has been tied to relaxation, and slow-tempo music can be used at night to enhance sleep quality. Headphones can be particularly helpful in noisy environments; they can help reduce sensory overstimulation and reduce hyperactivity.
One of our clients loves Rock n Roll, so we’ve made her a playlist for when we go on drives. By playing her favourite songs, we can reduce distress in the car, and chat about some of her favourite memories connected to the music.
Music for connection
Listening to music can be an individual activity, but there’s no denying the power of sharing music with those around you. Music has been shown to synchronise emotions, meaning it can help a group of people to enter the same emotional space, creating a collective feeling of safety and understanding. Through this, it can go beyond the songs and create meaningful communities across the UK. Music can unite people in so many ways, whether it’s a lullaby between a parent and a child, a jingle between friends, or a shared song in a local community group.
One example is Our Dementia Choir, a charity based in Nottinghamshire, providing vital support for individuals living with dementia. The choir performs across the country, promoting music’s therapeutic benefits and raising awareness for dementia’s impact on mental wellbeing. Kent Arts and Wellbeing also run Sing to Remember every Monday, a dementia-friendly singing activity in Maidstone that’s open to anyone. When we sing together, we can create a shared experience and allow a place for expression that doesn’t need words.
We feel lucky to live in a time and place where music is incredibly accessible, and often at little to no cost. It’s something that we can all enjoy and take part in, one way or another. For those in our care with dementia, we make sure their favourite tunes are always playing. Whatever their preference, we’re here for it, and music is another personalised aspect in our care plan. Get in touch with our friendly team if you would like to learn more.
