Older People and Those Living With Dementia

We offer a range of flexible music therapy services that can support older adults with learning disabilities; mental health issues; acquired brain injury; life-limiting illness, progressive neurological diseases such as dementia, and end of life care.

For those experiencing memory loss or dementia, music therapists employ specific techniques which can reduce anxiety and agitation, enable communication and create the opportunity for dialogue and emotional expression. As dementia progresses, the sense of isolation can be acute – music therapy remains effective and accessible, even when verbal skills are in decline.  Musical taste is often seen as part of how we shape our sense of identity – taking the time to get to know someone through the music they choose is also a way of honouring their personhood, at a point in life at which they may feel confused and forgotten. 

Music therapy can...

• prompt memories and may help to recover speech
• support emotional and physical regulation
• relieve anxiety and depression
• offer opportunities for family members to nurture ongoing relationships.