Engaging someone with dementia can be a real challenge, especially when communication becomes difficult as speech declines. Without the usual feedback, it’s hard to know what they enjoy or what will spark joy for them. Often, people fall into the trap of thinking, “Everyone loves war songs!” or “All old people love musicals,” but that’s not true. Every person has their own tastes, needs, and desires. It’s essential to treat each individual with dignity and respect, acknowledging who they are beyond their dementia.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that everyone with dementia enjoys the same things. It’s easy to forget that they’re individuals with unique histories, personalities, and preferences. Wendy Mitchell, a prominent advocate for people living with dementia, beautifully captured this sentiment in her book What I Wish People Knew About Dementia: “We are still the person we always were, just with a few additions...but it’s frustrating when people just see the dementia, not the person underneath.”
Dignity in care isn’t just about meeting basic needs; it’s about honouring the person behind the diagnosis. This means taking the time to understand them as individuals—listening, observing, and connecting in ways that go beyond words. Music is a powerful tool in this respect. It lights up the entire brain, sparking memories, creating joy, and fostering a sense of connection and purpose. It’s not just entertainment; it’s therapy.
So, why is music such a powerful tool in dementia care? Let’s explore the science behind it.
When we listen to or engage with music, our brains light up in a way that’s truly remarkable. Different areas start working together:
The Auditory Cortex processes the sounds—the rhythm, melody, and notes.
The Prefrontal Cortex helps us make sense of the music, understanding why a certain melody might evoke happiness or nostalgia.
The Limbic System, our emotional hub, releases dopamine (the “feel-good” hormone) when we hear a favourite tune, lifting our mood.
But it doesn’t stop there. Our brains aren’t just enjoying the music passively; they’re actively creating new connections through a process called neuroplasticity. Think of neuroplasticity as your brain’s way of building new pathways—connecting different areas to work better together. This brain workout can enhance memory, improve language skills, and even aid in problem-solving.
For someone with dementia, where certain neural connections may be weakening, music can act as a spark that rekindles those pathways. A familiar song might suddenly bring back a memory or feeling that seemed lost, offering moments of joy, clarity, and connection. As Wendy Mitchell so beautifully put it, “Music gives us back our connection to who we were.”
In my work, I’ve found that it’s essential not to assume everyone likes the same thing. Keeping an open mind and treating everyone with dignity is key. Dignity in care isn’t just about basic respect; it’s about recognising and honouring each person’s individual preferences and identity. You can learn a lot about someone just by watching—do they tap their feet? Are they smiling? Or perhaps they seem distressed? Observing these signs can guide you in creating a more personalised and positive experience.
But how do you choose the right music? The key is not to assume but to explore. I’ve found that keeping an open mind and treating everyone with dignity is crucial. Don’t just wheel in a big speaker and blast out what you think they’ll like. Imagine if someone came into your living room and did that! It would be incredibly invasive. Instead, I opt for a more therapeutic approach—gently strumming my guitar, singing unplugged, and creating a relaxed, pub singalong vibe. It’s not about the perfect performance; it’s about connection.
You don’t have to play the guitar to do this—just sing! Or use YouTube for some great karaoke tracks. In between songs, talking to residents helps build trust and friendship. Creating that rapport is just as important as the music itself.
There’s a lady I visit in one care home who can only say a few words, but when she sees me walk in with my guitar, her entire face lights up. The moment the music begins, she starts smiling, singing along, and even delicately moving her hands as if she’s conducting an orchestra. It’s like the music unlocks something deep inside her, bringing out a side of her that words alone can’t reach.
Then there’s a gentleman I visit who’s now confined to his bed. He’s weak, can’t talk anymore, and often looks too tired to open his eyes. But play one of his favourite rock ’n’ roll tunes, Blueberry Hill, or perhaps Peggy Sue, and suddenly, he’s gently singing along, lost in the music. Even on his toughest days, you can see how the music still brings him a sense of joy and connection. Moments like these are what make this work so special—seeing how music can break through the silence and bring a bit of light into someone’s day.
This is why dignity in care is so important. It’s about recognising that even when someone’s ability to communicate is compromised, they still have a deep need for connection and respect. Music offers a way to meet that need, to connect on a human level, and to bring joy into their lives.
For anyone looking to use music to promote well-being, my biggest tip is to remember that everyone is different. Put yourself in their shoes. How would it feel to be treated like just another old person with dementia, rather than being acknowledged for who you are? Be kind, be compassionate, and most importantly, be present.
Talking to family members and caregivers can also help. They can offer insights into the person’s history, preferences, and personality, helping you choose the right music and approach. Giving feedback after sessions is also important, as it helps everyone involved understand the impact and make adjustments as needed.
Incorporating music into care routines isn’t just about filling time—it’s about enriching lives. Whether you’re a care home owner, an activities coordinator, or a family member, music can be a powerful tool to improve well-being. It’s not just about the songs; it’s about the connection, the joy, and the dignity that music can bring into the lives of those living with dementia.
If you’re interested in learning more or want to explore how to incorporate music into your care setting, I’d love to help. Subscribe to my website for more tips, resources, and support. Together, let’s bring the power of music to those who need it most.
Comments