Case Study: Shirley Patterson

The Enduring Power of Music

Our musicians are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with dementia and other neurological conditions through interactive music sessions. Our musicians work closely with beneficiaries, adapting to different situations, improvising with skill and compassion, and witness little miracles every day first-hand. Our interactive sessions offer therapeutic benefits and provide a unique, alternative approach to dementia care by fostering connections and using music to turbo charge and stimulate memories.

Shirley’s Story

During an interactive music session on January 31, 2024, at Myos House, a truly extraordinary event occurred. Talented musicians, pianist Nigel Wears and singer Nicola Mills, were leading the session when Shirley Patterson, a resident with dementia and a former jazz singer, spontaneously began singing “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. This impromptu performance delighted her other residents and highlighted the profound impact of music in unlocking cherished memories and reconnecting people with their pasts and loved ones.

Our Unique Improvising Interactive Approach

Shirley’s story is a testament to the enduring power of music. It demonstrates how music brings joy, evokes memories, and creates connections even in the face of dementia. For many, visiting relatives in care homes can be heart breaking when they struggle to talk, reconnect or be recognised by their loved ones. Shirley’s performance showed how a simple word, like “baby,” could trigger memories of childbirth and rekindle her musical and performance skills. Music acts as a key to unlock lost memories and connections, allowing families to see their loved ones come alive, and reconnect, and no matter how long this lasts is for many priceless.

Lost Chord UK’s interactive music sessions offer a unique blend of music, and compassionate improvisation and therapeutic alternative that many people may not have considered. This approach has a proven track record in helping people with dementia reconnect with their loved ones and improve their quality of life. Shirley and Nicola’s harmonious interaction exemplifies a full-circle story of a musician supporting another former musician, showcasing the timeless impact of music and lived experience.

This case study illustrates how Lost Chord UK’s work creates profound and lasting impacts on people with dementia. Shirley’s story is just one example of the magic that happens when music and memory and connections intertwine.