Encouraging togetherness and learning in dementia care
MUSIC PROJECT
The Dementia Pathfinders Music Project took place between February 2023 and May 2024, distributing 17 personalised music players to 18 individuals living with dementia in Sandwell. Inspired by the "Playlist for Life" charity, the project aimed to improve autonomy, independence, and well-being through dementia-friendly personalised music players. Each participant's favourite songs were stored on USB memory sticks and played on easy-to-use "Relish" music players with pre-programmed radio stations.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants and their families reporting daily use, increased happiness, and ease of operation. Many participants were able to use the player without assistance and learn new skills and tools through independent use of the music player. One participant’s wife described the player as "life-changing," allowing her husband to enjoy music independently. Another participant’s support worker noted that although the individual could no longer operate other appliances, she was able to use the music player daily, calling it “a saviour for her.”
Ken received his music box with his personalised playlist saved to it.
Key positive points of feedback:
• It makes the participants happy- they love it- they enjoy using it to play their favourite songs.
• The music player is very easy to use.
• Participants can use the music player without assistance helping to support their autonomy, independence and confidence.
• Participants are using the music player every day.
The project along with Kens feedback, featured in the Winter 2023- 2024 Agewell Magazine.
Participants ranged in age from 64 to 92. The project helped alleviate loneliness, stimulate reminiscence, and provide daily enjoyment. Although some participants faced challenges due to deteriorating health or advanced dementia, others, including a participant in hospital, continued to benefit from the music player and its ease of accessibility.
In total, 999 songs were downloaded, with each USB containing around 58 tracks. The project successfully met its objectives with minor improvements identified around referral procedures and managing delays in distribution. Overall, participants were happy with the music player, reporting joy, increased quality of life and independence