BigPurplePhone: Music, Dementia and Memory

October 29, 2026

Oldr woman listening to music on a mobile

Music is good for the brain

There appears to be ample neurological evidence that listening to music is a full-brain experience. Neuroscientific studies show that music triggers activity across various brain regions. The auditory cortex processes sound, but music also activates areas responsible for movement, emotions, and memory, making it a holistic experience for the brain. (Thaut et al., 2001).

A World Health Study found that music, in particular, supports cognition in people with dementia, as well as verbal fluency, visuospatial skills and speech. However, most consistent results have been found for autobiographical memory. The report notes music’s ability to help reduce agitation and decrease the need for antipsychotic drugs. (Fancourt D, Finn S., 2019)

A comprehensive review of the 72 randomised trials involved almost 7,000 patients and found that listening to music before, during or after a surgical procedure significantly reduced pain and anxiety, and decreased the need for pain medication. Hole, J. et al The Lancet (2015)

Benefits of Listening to Music

There are many claims that the following benefits of listening to music may even alleviate some dementia symptoms. Although no research is cited here, the author has read several study reports and observed behaviours in clinical and lived-experience situations where these are frequently validated.

1. Enhances Memory Recall: Music can act as a time machine, triggering memories and emotions, helping dementia patients reconnect with their past.

2. Improves Cognitive Abilities: Listening to and creating music stimulates cognitive processes, potentially slowing cognitive decline in dementia patients.

3. Boosts Emotional Well-being: Music can uplift spirits, reduce anxiety and depression, and foster a sense of comfort and happiness.

4. Encourages Social Interaction: Group music therapy fosters social connections and reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation.

5. Promotes Physical Activity and Coordination: Rhythm-based activities like dancing or clapping enhance motor skills and coordination, promoting better physical health.

6. Facilitates Non-Verbal Expression: Music provides an alternative medium for emotional release and self-expression, particularly for those struggling with verbal communication.

7. Improves Quality of Sleep: Slow tempo music can create a relaxing environment, reducing agitation and promoting better sleep.

8. Strengthens Personal Identity and Self-Esteem: Engaging with familiar music can help dementia patients maintain their sense of identity, boosting self-esteem and personal accomplishment.

9. Reduces Pain and Stress: Soothing music can alleviate physical stress and pain, reducing the discomfort experienced by individuals with dementia.

10. Enhances Quality of Life: By facilitating emotional, cognitive, and social engagement, music therapy contributes to an overall better quality of life for dementia patients and their caregivers.

BigPurplePhone Music

Both the BigPurplePhone SilverFox and SilverFox+ Editions have a repertoire of familiar music genres that can be chosen for your Loved One to play on their mobile.

BigPurplePhone Music

The following is a list of popular styles available:

Golden Days
Hope
The Beatles
Classic Vinyl
Soul
Non Stop Oldies

BigPurplePhone Radio

If your Loved One prefers to listen to the radio, we have a selection of over 200 local public and commercial stations from across Australia and in different languages that can be chosen for their enjoyment.

BigPurplePhone Radio

Here’s a non-exhaustive sample:

BigPurplePhone Streaming

While BigPurplePhone SilverFox and SilverFox+ Editions also allow Loved Ones to install and connect to Spotify, YouTube and YouTube Music, it is still preferrable for you (or a Carer) to select suitable genes or playlists. These may be prepared in advance for different activities, occasions and musical preferences based on preferences, culture, life experiences and memories.

BigPurplePhone Streaming Apps