The Power of Music and Memory

Music has a unique way of taking us back in time, unlocking memories, and deepening our connections with others. In this episode, meet Rick — a talented, quick-witted musician living with dementia — and Robin Dann, a professional musician who uses her training to engage meaningfully with those experiencing cognitive changes. Together, they’ll share heartwarming stories and insights on how music can bridge the gaps created by dementia. Whether you’re a caregiver, a music lover, or just curious about the magic of melody, you’ll walk away with practical ways to bring the power of music into your caregiving journey. 

Credits:
Dementia Nation is funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons Grant for Seniors and is produced by Kristin Bartlett and Kristine White, edited by Matthew Pencer and developed by the Alzheimer Society of Toronto. The music is produced by Matthew Pencer and Robin Dann. DementiaNation is hosted by Kristin Bartlett and Tracey Adams Thibaudeau,  Active Living Program Coordinators for the Alzheimer Society of Toronto. Special thanks to Rick Levine and Robin Dann for sharing the power of music especially for those living with dementia. We also want to acknowledge Peyton Brien, Elizabeth Hodby, and Rita Osovetsky who created songs in the Find Your Inner SongBird program.

If you are interested in how you can bring more music into the lives of people living with dementia check out our Music Project at the Alzheimer Society of Toronto.

Musical memories are tied with emotional memories and the brain makes associations between important life events and music. Music memories are stored in different parts of the brain, collectively known as the music and memory network. As the brain deteriorates with the progression of dementia, musical memories can still be accessed through these networks which are typically not affected by dementia.  Music Project aims to bring the benefits of personalized music to people living with dementia and their care partners by providing the tools and support to implement this form of music therapy at no cost to the participant. To be eligible the music recipient must have a diagnosis or suspected diagnosis of dementia or cognitive impairment and must reside in the participating regions.  To apply simply visit our website www.musicproject.ca, click apply and then select the region in which you live.  Fill out the application and submit and we will ship a package to you with a mp3 player filled with your personalized music.” 

Link to Music Project - https://www./musicproject.ca

If I Was You
Co-created by Rick Levine and Robin Dann 

Every Lake 
Co-created by Elizabeth Hodby and Robin Dann
Additional percussion and keyboard by Philippe Melanson and Thom Gill

What Is Vital To You
Co-created by Peyton Brien and Robin Dann

Beautiful Seagulls
Co-created by Rita Osovetsky and Robin Dann

Photo by Sarah Faulkner, Riverside Photographers