Through a practitioner-research programme, the aim of this project was to: improve research developed by those delivering care for older people with dementia; improve awareness and access, and support engagement and collaboration.

The practitioner-research tested if preferred music (delivered via a personal MP3 player) could impact positively on the recipient’s mood and wellbeing and whether this would impact on their carer. In nearly all cases there was a positive impact on mood, helped by the fact that, with headphones, background distractions could be cut out. It also gave carers a break.

Caine, J. (2013). Is music the best medicine? Using prescribed music to enhance quality of life for people with dementia and their carer. Scotland: CRFR/Institute for Research and Innovation in Social Services (IRISS).