Music to remember, sing and share
A space where familiar songs become a bridge to memory, emotion and connection. You don’t need to know music – just let yourself be carried away by the melodies that have accompanied a lifetime.
At a care home
Every week, I spend an hour with a group of people living in a dementia care home. I bring my instruments, but the real protagonist is the repertoire of a lifetime: songs from their youth, from childhood, folk songs they recognize.
The session starts with a familiar song. Someone hums, another person taps their foot, someone is encouraged to sing a verse. Little by little, memories emerge: stories, names of dances, places. Music doesn’t just entertain – it awakens, connects, moves.
Sometimes the group prefers to listen. Other times, we liven things up with more upbeat rhythms and do gentle seated movements or gestures. The important thing is that everyone takes part in their own way, unhurried, without pressure.
What we work on?
Memory stimulation through meaningful songs
Activation of language and communication
Mood improvement and reduction of isolation
Gentle movement and coordination (if the group is able)
Creating a space for connection, joy and belonging
Who it’s for?
Care homes looking for a regular activity that connects with their residents’ life stories
Day centres where memory, movement and social interaction are encouraged
Associations working with older people or those with cognitive decline
It can be a single session or a weekly activity, depending on what the centre needs
Practical information
Session length: 45–60 minutes
Group size: 6–12 participants
Space: a room with chairs, where we can sit in a circle or semicircle
Materials: I bring the instruments and ideas – though it’s helpful to know what kind of music the participants enjoy.
No musical experience needed.
This activity was possible thanks to Studieförbundet
