Music for Dementia
Dean Richards • February 22, 2021
Music for Dementia
The pandemic has changed life for all of us but some older people are among the hardest hit.
Age Connects Torfaen recognised the increased emotional strain that older people felt during lockdown and in partnership with Digital Communities Wales introduced a unique playlist project to their clients living in Torfaen. A playlist contains all the songs or pieces of music that make up the soundtrack of a person’s life. The tunes that give you that ‘flashback-feeling’ whenever you hear them; that take you back, to another time, person or place.
Age Connects Torfaen targeted playlists at older people living with dementia. The playlist was used to harnesses the powerful effect of personal music to help anyone who is affected by dementia, their families and carers. Whether it’s the music from a first dance, lullabies from childhood or a theme tune from a favourite TV show, music has the ability to take us back in time and remind us of our past, giving you that flashback feeling. Sharing a person’s songs and memories can help people living with dementia connect with family, friends and carers. Staff at involved with the project have also found that listening to music that is personally meaningful has many psychological benefits, meaning anyone can benefit from a playlist.
Emma Wootten Development Co-ordinator said; “It’s amazing what a powerful trigger this project has turned out to be. Working so closely with our clients has enabled us to identify a playlist that evokes powerful memories from an individual’s life. It is also a wonderful joint exercise for a carer to be involved with and feel close to their loved one”.
“Digital Communities Wales Advisor Angela Jones said: Digital Communities Wales is proud to be working with Age Connects Torfaen in our response to the pandemic, ensuring that vulnerable people across the borough are supported creatively through the crisis using digital technology.”
Staff from Age Connects Torfaen have been working tirelessly to continue to support vulnerable older people in Torfaen in a creative way ,despite the significant difficulties posed by the lockdown. For further information about Age Connects Torfaen services, please visit www.ageconnectstorfaen.org or visit their Facebook page.
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