Five Questions With… Helen Skinner

Can you tell us about a time you’ve seen the power of music in action for dementia or in another scenario?

One moment that stands out vividly was when we created a personalised playlist for a patient in hospital who had been quite withdrawn and non-communicative for some time. All we knew was that the individual had a deep love for country music. We started by playing a greatest hits playlist with a variety of artists. When we played the playlist, and a certain artist came on, the change was almost immediate and remarkable. As the music began to play, the patient’s eyes lit up, and they started tapping their fingers to the rhythm. Then, something extraordinary happened. They began to hum along to the melody. It was the first time in months that they had shown such a level of engagement. Family members who were present were moved to tears, as they saw a glimpse of the person they remembered so vividly.

This moment encapsulated the transformative power of music. It bridged the gap that dementia had created, if only for a short time, and allowed this person to reconnect with a part of themselves that seemed lost. It also provided a shared experience for the family and the care team, reinforcing the value of personalised, relationship-centred care. This experience and many others like it continually affirm why music is such a vital tool in dementia care and inspires me to keep advocating for its use.

A team you work with recently experienced an 80% reduction in medication for people living with dementia. Can you tell us more about the benefits of using less medication for the both the patient and the healthboard? 

Using personalised music playlists as a form of therapy for people living with dementia can lead to significant benefits, including a reduction in the need for medication. This approach not only improves the patient’s quality of life but also has broader positive implications for health boards.

Medications commonly used in dementia care, such as antipsychotics, sedatives, and antidepressants, can have significant side effects. These can include drowsiness, confusion, increased risk of falls, and even cardiovascular issues. By reducing reliance on these medications through non-pharmacological interventions like personalised music, patients are less likely to experience these adverse effects. This leads to better overall well-being and a more active and engaged lifestyle.

Music has a unique ability to soothe agitation, reduce anxiety, and elevate mood. For patients, this means fewer feelings of frustration, confusion, and isolation. Music can provide comfort and joy, creating moments of connection and familiarity, which is especially important in the context of dementia where cognitive functions are declining.  

Personalised music can often evoke memories and emotions that facilitate communication. Patients who may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally can use music as a medium to connect with caregivers and family members. This can lead to improved social interactions and a deeper sense of being understood and valued.

What’s one thing you do for your own health that you would recommend for others? 

One thing I do for my own health is to think about my brain health. There are 14 modifiable risk factors for dementia and up to 45% of cases of dementia can be delayed or prevented. Being physically active is one of the best things you can do to boost brain health. I have recently started playing golf, which gets me out in the fresh air, walking the course (frequently looking for lost balls!!) and spending time socialising with friends – all good for my brain health. So I recommend everyone to take this five minute brain health quiz from Brain Health Scotland to find out tips and advice on how to keep your brain healthy.