Charity offering musical help for dementia care

Community groups in Bath are being encouraged to help bring the power of personal music to those living dementia.

Playlist for Life is a music and dementia charity that wants everyone living with dementia to have a playlist of personal music and for everyone who cares for them to know how to use it effectively.

A Help Point is a place where people can get information about creating and using a personal playlist to help someone living with dementia.

By signing up to be a Help Point, community groups will gain access to a free webinar on how to share the power of personal music in your community.

Playlist for Life was founded in 2013 by writer and broadcaster Sally Magnusson.

The charity’s work is based on more than two decades of research showing that music which sparks memories can help those living with dementia by alleviating stress, managing symptoms and strengthening relationships with family members and carers.

Funds raised by members of the public will help the Playlist for Life to continue to provide free resources and support those affected by dementia.

Michelle Armstrong, interim executive director of the charity, said: “People living with dementia, their families and carers are among those who have been hit hardest by the pandemic.

“During this extremely difficult time, we have been working closely with families and care professionals to spread joy through the power of music, and now we’re calling on the wider public to get involved.

“Taking part can be as simple as giving your gran a call and chatting about music and memories. It’s all about connecting with each other while raising awareness of the power music can have for someone living with dementia.

“Like all charities, our funding has been impacted by the pandemic, and this campaign will help us to continue supporting those who could most benefit.

Webinars are taking place today (November 5) and November 12 from 1pm to 2.30pm via Zoom.