As a musician, you may not have worked with someone living with dementia before. In doing so, there may be adaptations you need to consider. You may either need to support somebody to keep playing or help them play for the first time! 

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1. To help with getting started

• Think about whether it would be more suitable for them to play a digital or physical instrument. Instruments such as Casio’s ‘Light Up My Life’  keyboard can be great for beginners as it helps you to help you to learn as you play
• Between lessons with you, would online videos or lessons be helpful in helping them to stay motivated and engaged? 
• Would they like to learn with someone? This could be a friend or family member who can support them in their learning

2. To help with continuing to play

• Ensure the individual has access to their instrument and it is in good condition
• Ask them how they feel about playing. Do they need your support, and how? If they need access to apps or online videos or tutorials, can you help with that? 
• Think about whether there are moments in their day or week when playing could be particularly helpful. For example, if they are feeling disorientated or are in a low mood, could playing their instrument help to bring focus and improve mood?
• Consider sharing this information with family or carers who can support with incorporating it into the every day. You may be able to pass on or share some basic skills and information with family and carers if they are unfamiliar with the instrument
• Would they like the music they enjoy playing to be included in their playlist? 
• Can you help with recording their playing, if they would like to record any of their music to share with others?

3. Managing playing over time

• Make others aware that the individual is playing an instrument as part of their care plan. Think about when during the week is most beneficial for them to have access to their instrument, and how they can do so.  This might involve speaking to colleagues so that they can provide support such as by knowing what online lessons they watch or where instruments are kept
• Keep in regular contact with family and carers to find out if there have been any changes to health and wellbeing that you should be aware of
• Skills and abilities will change over time. Think about how you can support them with adapting how they play the instrument and what they play. When might it be appropriate to work with a music therapist? 

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