Can making music improve the quality of life for people with dementia?

Music has a unique ability to create community and well-being. Now, a new research project, with researchers from Jönköping University (JU), is investigating how a music programme, Music in Mind, can contribute to improved quality of life for people with dementia. Through improvised music making, participants can experience meaningful moments without the need for using their memory or for performance.

Music in Mind is a music programme where people with dementia, along with relatives, musicians, and healthcare staff create music together in the moment. The method originated in England and has been shown to have positive effects on the well-being of all involved. The program has now been introduced in Sweden, where researchers are examining its effect on people with moderate to severe dementia who live in special housing.

The research project is led by Ingrid Hellström, professor at Marie Cederschiöld University, and is conducted together with Elzana Odzakovic and Therése Bielsten, assistant professors at the School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University. The research is a collaboration with the original creators of Music in Mind in Manchester. Conductor Kristofer Wåhlander is the initiator of the project in Sweden and, together with musicians from the Lundaland Philharmonic Orchestra, has been trained by experts from the Manchester Camerata Orchestra.

Being in the moment - a key to well-being

Unlike many other activities, Music in Mind does not require participants to remember facts or details. Instead, the focus is on being present in the moment and experiencing a pressure-free, meaningful time together.

"Music is a powerful tool that can create meaningful relationships regardless of cognitive ability. Holding music sessions with people living with dementia in special housing has the potential to create a chain effect where not only the participants but also their surroundings are positively affected," says Therése Bielsten.

The project emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for all individuals, regardless of cognitive ability, to participate in meaningful activities.

Raising awareness in society

The researchers hope that the project's results will not only lead to improved quality of life for people with dementia but also increase awareness in society about how it is possible to live well with dementia as well as contribute to reducing stigma and isolation.

"By promoting empathy, inclusion, and proactive engagement for people with dementia, the project can make a difference on several levels. This can, in turn, contribute to a more meaningful work environment and reduce the risk of burnout among healthcare staff," says Elzana Odzakovic.

The project runs over four years and is funded with SEK 5.3 million by Sällskapet De Gamlas Vänner. It builds on previous research and experiences from previous music sessions conducted by the Lundaland Philharmonic Orchestra.

Video with music therapists and musicians from the British orchestra Manchester Camerata who created the programme.