Melton care home's state-of-the-art music room to help dementia sufferers

Staff at The Amwell, a residential, respite and dementia care home in Asfordby Road, decided to create the space specifically for music, as it is well-known that music therapy is important in the care of people with dementia.

The room, which was originally one of the care home’s lounges, has been completely redesigned to make a variety of musical instruments available to residents, and redecorated with colourful themed artwork to have music at its heart.

Scientific research shows that music plays a vital role in the therapy of dementia sufferers, as music can evoke emotions that bring memories, and also shifts mood, manages stress and stimulates positive interactions. In addition, it is known that musical aptitude and appreciation are two of the last remaining abilities in dementia patients.

The music room contains a variety of instruments such as a baby grand piano and percussion for residents to play, a juke-box for those who wish to select their favourite music from their younger years as well as comfortable seating to make it a space to relax.

Laraine Lewis, activities co-ordinator at The Amwell, said: “After seeing the benefits that music has on our residents with dementia we knew it was really important to provide a permanent space just for music.

“The science speaks for itself, but when we see our residents really respond to a therapy like they do to our music-based activities, it’s absolutely a no-brainer that we need to make it part of every day.”