Participatory music making with people living with dementia

Abstract

Disciplinary background A. Background in music psychology: The potential therapeutic effects of music are wide ranging (MacDonald et al., 2012). Music has been shown to stimulate the brain (Trimble & Hesdorffer, 2017), promote social connections, and provide a channel for communicating emotions and intentions, and expressing individual identity (Hargreaves et al., 2017). Disciplinary background B. Background in healthcare: People living with dementia can experience behavioural and psychological symptoms, often resulting in a lower quality of life for themselves and their caregivers (Cerejeira et al., 2012). In recent years there has been increased interest in music-based interventions that could alleviate some of these symptoms and improve quality of life. Abstract The main aim of my talk is to give an introduction to my research, which explores the experiences and perspectives of experienced music therapists and community musicians who engage in participatory music practices with people living with dementia. Through my research I aim to bring about a deeper understanding of the benefits of active participation in music for people living with dementia, and also shed light on the challenges and rewards it can bring for the community musicians and music therapists who work with them. Music has