Wishart supports dementia charity Playlist for Life

Ahead of World Music Day on June 21, Beatrice Wishart MSP for Shetland has expressed her support for the charity Playlist for Life, which supports people affected by dementia to create personalised music playlists. Personally meaningful music can improve connection and communication for people affected by dementia, while reducing distress, anxiety or the need for medication. 

One in three people born in the UK today is expected to develop dementia. There is no cure for dementia but music can help, as it boosts brain health, happiness, and connection to self and others. 

In Shetland, Playlist for Life has established six help points, in partnership with community organisations, where local families can access free resources and support to create and use personalised playlists. The charity also provide in-depth training to NHS and care staff on the use of personally meaningful music in dementia care. 

Commenting, Ms Wishart said: 

“It was great to meet representatives from the award-winning charity Playlist for Life in the Scottish Parliament and learn about their work. 

“Music is known to be a powerful way to forge connections and reduce stress, and so interventions using music are low cost but high impact tools in dementia care.”