Playlist for Life is a UK charity that harnesses the power of personally meaningful music to improve the lives of people affected by dementia. Founded in 2013 by writer and broadcaster Sally Magnusson after her mother’s experience with dementia, the charity helps families, carers and healthcare professionals create and use “personal playlists” — collections of songs linked to key memories and emotions.

Research shows that listening to familiar, emotionally significant music can reduce anxiety, spark conversation, and revive a sense of identity in people living with dementia. Playlist for Life:

• Provides free resources and training to families, care homes, NHS staff and community groups on how to identify and record a personal playlist.

• Runs a national network of “Help Points,” offering printed guides, Memory Music worksheets and one-to-one support.

• Advocates for music as standard care, working with policymakers and clinicians to embed personalised playlists in dementia practice across the UK.

• Offers a growing digital library of tutorials, themed playlists and “Song Story” videos that showcase the positive impact of music on memory and wellbeing.

By connecting life stories to the soundtrack of cherished songs, Playlist for Life helps people with dementia feel calmer, more connected and more themselves, while giving carers simple, joyful moments of communication and relief.