Songs for Dementia
Music can help the person shine through dementia
At Playlist for Life, we focus on the people beyond the dementia diagnosis.
Music that gives you that flashback feeling can be a lifeline for people living with dementia. Personal playlists, which tell the story of someone’s life through music, can be a powerful tool to unlock people’s individuality and help the person shine through. Put simply, music can shine a spotlight on the ‘me’ in dementia.
Over two decades of scientific research has shown that listening to a personal playlist can improve the lives of those living with dementia.
At Playlist for Life, we want to show you how to harness the power of personal music, helping anyone affected by dementia to shine through.
Watch: Our Founder's story
Writer and broadcaster Sally Magnusson founded Playlist for Life in 2013 after the death of her mother Mamie, who lived with dementia.
Watch our video below to hear how personally meaningful music helped to keep Mamie connected to her family and, crucially, to herself throughout her dementia journey.
Get started on a playlist for yourself or someone you love today
Building a personal playlist is easy, and you don’t need any technology to get started. Our free resources can help you select the songs that matter most and turn them into a personal playlist for yourself or someone you love.
Do you work in dementia care?
Find out how personal playlists can help you provide truly person-centred care in your role. We have trained over 7,000 health and social care professionals on using personal playlists in care.
Help us spread the word
Can you help us share the power of personal playlists with even more people living with dementia? Download social media assets from our Google Drive. Your support will help us reach many more people affected by dementia.
