MUSIC
Think of music as a tool which can be used to create these meaningful connections, supporting the reduction of agitation in dementia care. We can use interactive, responsive music in a group setting to create connections through interactions with carers, families and with each other, discussions about the music and memories associated with it. The use of reminiscence props is also important, bringing in a tactile element linking props to the music, creating an all-round sensory experience. Music can also be incredibly beneficial at an individual level, using familiar music for the individual, again placing them directly at the centre of their care. Take the time to get to know the person’s life history; which music is meaningful to them (involve families in this conversation); and whether music already plays a role in their life and how? For example, do they listen to certain albums or radio stations on a regular basis? Does music form part of their daily routine? Are there any particular pieces of music which may be a trigger for agitation or for emotion-evoking memories? We shouldn’t be afraid of emotional responses, we should embrace them.
Seeing the first-hand effects of music is just amazing. Participation in music can help to improve communication. Oſten, we see residents who are initially uncommunicative start singing along with a piece of music which particularly resonates with them. Through engaging with music, carers are oſten able to learn more about the people that they care for, having a deeper understanding of their life history and
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poignant memories, and, of course, this knowledge can be used during daily care. For example, playing individualised playlists during care routines could help to reduce triggers for agitation.
The use of individualised music used in this way can also improve quality of life and wellbeing, reminding the individual that they are still a person with a rich life history. This, in turn, increases their feeling of self-worth, confidence and mood. Likewise, by empowering your care staff to have the skills confidence and knowledge to use music within their daily dementia care, they too may feel an increase in wellbeing, quality of life and job satisfaction by feeling a stronger connection with those they care for.
Through music, we can empower individuals with dementia to remember that they are still a person, that their values still matter, and their contribution to their community is important. Ultimately, they are LOVED and we can show this through the level of care we provide, truly adopting a person- centred and relationship-centred approach, integrating activities which are meaningful to the individual intertwined within their care. This will also support their social needs, provide meaningful connections and reduce the triggers of agitation.
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