Harmonising Minds Dementia Friendly Music & Arts

Dementia Researcher

In this episode of the Dementia Researcher podcast, guest host Dr Robyn Dowlen leads a fascinating exploration of the intersection of music, arts, and inclusivity in the context of dementia. This episode features a trio of remarkable guests who have been instrumental in integrating dementia-friendly initiatives into the arts. Our guests are Holly Marland, Former Churchill Fellow and Music Therapist and dedicated advocate for community music projects; Dr Andy Northcott from the University of West London, who brings an academic perspective on the impact of arts and how to make events more accessible; and Liv McLennan from Sounds Better Community Interest Company, a pioneer in using music as a bridge to memory and joy. The episode explores the inspiring stories behind our guests’ projects, ranging from festivals to operas, highlighting how they're creating spaces where every note and performance opens doors to accessibility and understanding. Robyn, a researcher at the University of Manchester, also shares insights from her work on capturing the musical experiences of people with dementia. This episode is not just about the arts, but also about how these initiatives foster community, inclusivity, and a deeper understanding of dementia's impact on lives. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that promises to be as informative as it is inspiring, showcasing the powerful role of arts in enhancing the lives of those living with dementia. -- Full biographies on all our guests and a transcript can be found on our website https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk -- Like what you hear? Please review, like, and share our podcast - and don't forget to subscribe to ensure you never miss an episode – and if you prefer to watch rather than watch, you’ll find a video version of this podcast with full captions on YouTube and our website: https://youtu.be/p09EwnJ5lYk -- This podcast is brought to you by University College London / UCLH NIHR Biomedical Research Centre in association with Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia who we thank for their ongoing support. -- Follow us on Social Media: www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/ www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/ #dementiacare #dementiaresearch #Arts #dementia #alzheimerdisease #DementiaCare #MusicandDementia #Opera