A CARE home in Horsted Keynes has become one of the first in the country to receive accreditation from Playlist for Life.

It is a charity founded by Sally Magnusson for a pioneering project using music to support people living with dementia.

Abbeyfield’s ‘Making Music Project,’ funded by The People’s Postcode Trust and delivered using tools and training developed by Playlist for Life, aims to document how personally meaningful music can ease dementia symptoms for those living with the condition.

Abbeyfield’s Westall House is one of 19 Abbeyfield pilot sites for the project which, now finished, can be rolled out across the UK.

Data gathered from the pilot sites shows that using a personal playlist can reduce anxiety, agitation and depression for those with dementia.

It can also help to recall memories and abilities thought lost, as well as reduce the need for medication.

April Dobson, Head of Dementia Innovation at Abbeyfield, and project lead said: “The project has really been such a success and, in conjunction with the People’s Postcode Trust and Playlist for Life, we have been able to use music to connect with people living with the condition.”

“This has meant so much to them, their families and their friends, and our teams of staff and volunteers. We cannot wait to roll this out across Abbeyfield and continue to make a real difference to the lives of those living with dementia.”

Jemma Thompson, Operations Manager at Westall House, said: “We were delighted to be chosen as a pilot site for the Making Music project and it was amazing to see the change, over time, of our resident when playing them the tunes.

“It can become a real bonding experience.”