An Innovative, Person-centered Approach to Dementia Care

The Healing Power of Music

What is Music & Memory

• Music & Memory trains nursing home staff, other elder care professionals and family caregivers.

• Customized playlists on digital music players help those with dementia reconnect to the world around them.

• Holds tremendous potential for older Ohioans and their caregivers

Creating a Personalized Playlist• What music did you listen

to when you were young?• What were your favorite

hymns or other religious music?

• Did you enjoy going to Broadway shows or Musicals?

• Do you still have records or tapes that were favorites?

• Who was your favorite performer, group, band or orchestra?

• Who was your favorite classical composer?

• Can you hum any of your favorites?

• What songs did you dance to at your wedding or high school prom?

Making Better Lives• Innovative, person-

centered approach• Music replaces

confusion, depression• Individuals become

more cooperative and attentive, more willing to accept care

• Brighter moods boost staff morale

• Reduces wandering and restlessness

• Better connections with family and staff

• Decreases medication use

How Can You Help?

• Donate new or gently used iPods to Music & Memory.• Donate iPods and iTunes gift cards to your local

participating site.• Organize and promote an iPod/iTunes gift card drive.• Volunteer at a local Music & Memory site creating

playlists and helping residents with their iPods.• Identify a local nursing home and help them get a

Music & Memory program started.

www.aging.ohio.gov/services/music-memory/

As featured in the award-winning documentary, “Alive Inside.”