A charity launched in Dunfermline by one of Scotland’s leading broadcasters to help people suffering from dementia looks set to go nationwide.
The charity Playlist for Life was set up in June last year by Sally Magnusson following the death of her mother Mamie from dementia.
Dunfermline was chosen as a pilot for the project, which creates personal playlists of memorable music for those living with the condition. The idea is the emotion of the music helps the sufferer recall memories.
However, it is not confined to Fife, Playlist trustee and trainer Andy Lowndes said.
Playlist is now working with eight of Scotland’s 14 NHS trusts to pilot the concept with patients suffering from various forms of impairment. Through the training of relatives, care home staff, those in the voluntary sector and NHS in how to construct playlists, 36 families will benefit from the Dunfermline pilot project, funded by the Carnegie Dunfermline Trust.
They are also embarking on dementia awareness training with young ambassadors from Dunfermline Abbey’s youth group.
At the invitation of the Scottish Government, a PhD student at Queen Margaret Hospital will also look at the effectiveness of the playlist scheme.
Mr Lowndes said: “We don’t want to make a business out of Playlist for Life. If we can get the message out to the community, then great things can happen.”