We received an enthusiastic welcome from the Home Instead Wandsworth team last week when we provided an afternoon’s training session for some of their caregivers. Together we explored the ways music might enhance person-centred care for people living with dementia in their own homes and shared a few simple ideas to build on how many of them were already thinking about using music to aid communication, connection and engagement.


Almost all caregivers left telling us they felt ‘very inspired’ to use their learning from the session in the care they provide for their clients living with dementia:

For me the most useful aspect of today’s training was understanding that music can be non-verbal like tapping/clapping – I don’t have to be “professional”.

Participant

I learnt that there is no judgment from your client.

Participant

I feel more inspired to ask my client more about the music they are learning at choir classes and maybe practice a little with them.

Participant

It doesn’t matter if you don’t sing, you can [use music] in different ways.

Participant


Over the next few weeks, we will be championing their courage to try some of these musical activities with their clients, before we meet again in a month’s time to share experiences and provide additional support.

Interested to know more?

If you’d like to find out more about the role music could play in the care you provide for someone living with dementia, please get in touch.