Depression is a common experience for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or recovering from strokes. While the medical focus often centers on physical and cognitive recovery, the emotional and psychological toll cannot be ignored. Through my work, I’ve seen firsthand how these conditions strip away a person’s sense of self and purpose, making depression a common yet heartbreaking reality. But I’ve also seen how simple, human-centred approaches like music, art, and one-to-one connection can make an extraordinary difference.
What I Do
As a music for well-being specialist, I work with individuals and groups, including:
Care homes: Supporting people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
TBI groups: Encouraging emotional expression and social connection.
Stroke survivors: Working one-to-one to rebuild confidence and find joy.
SEND children and adults: Creating spaces for creativity, learning, and connection through music.
I use music as a way to reconnect individuals with their identity, bringing moments of joy and providing a safe space for self-expression.
Why Depression Occurs
Depression among individuals with Alzheimer’s, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or recovering from strokes often stems from a combination of emotional, social, and systemic factors. These individuals are not only grappling with the profound changes brought about by their condition but also with the environments they find themselves in and the way others perceive and interact with them.
One significant cause is the loss of self. Many individuals feel disconnected from their former identity and abilities, which can create a deep sense of grief and hopelessness. For example, someone who once thrived in a career may struggle to find meaning in daily life when those abilities are taken away. This loss often intersects with a lack of purpose, as individuals may no longer have the opportunity to engage in meaningful activities or contribute in ways they once did.
Another contributing factor is the nature of care environments. While many care homes strive to offer compassionate and personalized support, some institutional structures can unintentionally lead to individuals feeling like “just a number.” This depersonalization, where people are treated as their condition rather than as unique individuals, can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and worthlessness. In extreme cases, poor management or insufficient training can lead to neglect or even institutional abuse, further diminishing a person’s sense of dignity and security.
Communication barriers also play a significant role. Many caregivers, family members, and friends are unsure how to interact with someone who has Alzheimer’s, a TBI, or stroke-related challenges. There’s often a fear of “doing it wrong,” which leads to avoidance or overly clinical interactions that lack warmth and humanity. This lack of meaningful communication deepens the sense of isolation and contributes to feelings of depression.
There is much work to be done in educating people about how to approach and engage with these individuals. Simple efforts, like learning how to hold a conversation or finding creative ways to connect, can transform a person’s daily experience and combat the emotional toll of these conditions.
How People Can Reconnect
1. Personalized Engagement
Reconnection starts with treating individuals as unique people with their own stories, preferences, and experiences. Whether it’s learning their favourite songs, reminiscing about their past, or involving them in activities that spark joy, personalization can rebuild a sense of identity and self-worth.
2. The Power of Conversation
Simple, one-to-one conversations are free yet profoundly impactful. Asking open-ended questions, listening attentively, and being patient allows individuals to feel heard and valued. For those with speech difficulties, non-verbal communication like holding hands or sharing a smile can foster a meaningful connection.
3. Creative Outlets
Music, art, and storytelling provide therapeutic ways to process emotions and reconnect with oneself. Music, in particular, can tap into preserved memories and create moments of joy and clarity. Painting, crafting, or writing can also help individuals express what they cannot articulate verbally.
4. Establishing Routine and Purpose
Incorporating small but purposeful tasks into daily routines can give individuals a sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s helping set the table, watering plants, or participating in group activities, these contributions can reignite a sense of belonging and purpose.
5. Training and Education
Reconnection isn’t solely about what the individual does—it’s also about how caregivers and loved ones interact. Providing training on how to communicate effectively with people who have Alzheimer’s, TBI, or are recovering from a stroke can remove fears and misconceptions, creating a more compassionate and supportive environment.
6. Bringing Music into Their Lives
As someone who works closely with individuals in care homes, TBI groups, and 1:1 settings, I’ve seen firsthand how music can bridge gaps. Whether it’s through singing familiar songs, playing instruments, or simply listening together, music can open doors to communication, memory recall, and emotional healing.
A Call for More
While there are promising approaches, I feel strongly that more can be done. Small, simple acts—like consistent one-to-one conversations or incorporating music into daily care routines—are incredibly impactful. These are cost-effective, accessible tools that can help restore dignity, purpose, and hope to individuals who often feel forgotten.
The Power of Dignity in Care
Everything I do centres on respect and connection. It’s not just about playing music; it’s about creating an environment where people feel valued. Whether through singing, chatting, or just being present, I strive to remind people that they are more than their condition.
Feel free to contact me if you’d like to learn more about my work or explore ways to bring these tools to your care setting. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
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