Music better than medication? Dean -Playlists for Life & Dementia Radio | Fighting E8

In this episode we hear from Frank, sharing his perspective as a carer supporting his wife Fran through her dementia journey. Frank opens up about the gradual changes he noticed, how they've adapted their daily life together, and the importance of maintaining normalcy while accepting their new reality.

We're also joined by Dean McShane, a mental health senior lecturer, director of Merseyside Dementia Friendly Radio & ambassador for Playlists For Life. Dean shares fascinating insights about the power of music as a therapeutic intervention for people with dementia, explaining how personalised playlists can be more effective than medication in reducing agitation and improving quality of life.

Resources mentioned:
Playlist for Life (playlistforlife.org), Merseyside Dementia Friendly Radio

Episode Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction & Welcome

Episode introduction and guest introductions
Frank stepping in as co-host

01:04 - Frank's Journey: Early Signs & Diagnosis

First noticing changes in Fran's behavior
The gradual realisation something was wrong
The diagnosis process and Frank's reaction

05:26 - Adapting to Change: New Roles & Responsibilities

How their relationship dynamics shifted
Family support system and daughter's involvement
Maintaining Fran's independence where possible

08:48 - The Reality of Memory Loss

Short-term memory challenges vs. long-term recall
The shocking moments and emotional impact
Stress and its effect on symptoms

14:56 - Support Systems & Professional Background

Frank's experience working in dementia care
Available support services and care navigators
The importance of acceptance in their journey

22:22 - Dean McShane Introduction

Dean's background as mental health lecturer
Introduction to Playlist for Life and dementia-friendly radio
The problem with overuse of antipsychotic medication

26:51 - The Science of Music & Memory

How music lights up the brain like a "firework display"
Music's emotional connection and memory triggers
The power of personalised playlists vs. generic music

34:27 - Creating Personal Playlists

Practical approaches to finding meaningful songs
The "memory bump" - ages 10-30 as key musical years
Conversation starters and family involvement

44:13 - Merseyside Dementia Friendly Radio

The UK's first DAB dementia-friendly radio station
Removing distressing content and sonic clutter
Goals for expansion to hospitals and care homes

50:43 - Cultural Considerations & Accessibility

Adapting music therapy for different ethnicities
Resources available in multiple languages
Working with diverse communities

56:00 - Student Nursing & Changing Perceptions

Training future nurses about dementia
Breaking down misconceptions and stigma
The rewards of dementia care

1:05:52 - Final Thoughts & Resources

Dean's key message about music as a lifeline
How to access Playlist for Life resources
Episode wrap-up and contact information