- Researchers from the University of Sheffield have reassessed the goals of music interactions for people with dementia
- The new paper emphasises how music can be a powerful tool to strengthen relationships for people with dementia
- 55 million people are living with dementia around the globe and it is estimated this number will rise to 139 million by 2050
Over 982,000 individuals in the UK are currently living with dementia, a condition that gradually erodes cognitive functions and can significantly impact daily life.
As dementia progresses, symptoms like memory loss, difficulty focusing, and changes in mood become more pronounced, affecting everything from simple tasks to complex decision-making. Music can play a powerful role in helping people with dementia maintain a sense of self and connection with others.
However, music can bring up difficult memories or emotions, and may not be enjoyable for everyone.
A new paper published in Science Direct suggests a different approach to music interactions that focuses on the strengths and abilities of people with dementia, rather than their limitations, to increase their engagement with music.
Authored by Dr Justin Christensen, Dr Jennifer MacRitchie and Professor Renee Timmers, the paper highlights how music can help people with dementia connect with others, express themselves, and maintain a sense of self. This perspective emphasises embodied skills that remain in the context of dementia, countering emphasis on what may be lost.
We propose using music technologies that tap into embodied forms of interaction, enabling people living with dementia to stay active in social and creative life. Recognising that people are rarely isolated individuals, we aim to support shared agency and meaningful connection, moving beyond individual-focused tools toward shared musical experiences. This can lead to changes in how music is used in care practices, from a focus on the individual to a focus on relationships and couplehood.
Dr Justin Christensen
Research Associate at the Department of Music and member of Muses Mind Machine and Healthy Lifespan institutes at the University of Sheffield
The paper proposes a new way of thinking about music interactions for people with dementia. It suggests that technology can be used to support people with dementia in musical activities, helping them to feel more involved and engaged. By focusing on the strengths and abilities of people with dementia, it is possible to create more meaningful and empowering music experiences.
The paper emphasises the importance of relationships, particularly between couples living with dementia, as music can be a powerful tool for couples to support each other and maintain a sense of connection.
An important aspect is the idea of "joint action," where people with dementia and their caregivers work together to create music. This can help strengthen their relationship and provide a sense of shared purpose.
Music can also help people with dementia communicate and express themselves in ways that go beyond words. By focusing on embodied experiences, such as movement and feeling, there is scope to create more inclusive and enjoyable music activities.
Ultimately, the goal of music interactions for people with dementia should be to improve their quality of life and wellbeing.
By focusing on their strengths, fostering relationships, and using technology to support their musical experiences, it is possible to create a more positive and meaningful future for people living with dementia.
For media enquiries please contact mediateam@sheffield.ac.uk