Music based resources helping caregivers bring meaningful, person centred music into daily dementia care. Developed by the University of Roehampton.
Take Note is a free, research‑informed collection of music activities designed to support people living with dementia. Created in collaboration with Sounds of Intent, the resources make it easier for carers, families, and care professionals to use music in a way that is personal, accessible, and meaningful—supporting connection, communication and emotional wellbeing in everyday care.
For Care‑Home Staff
Take Note supports activity coordinators, nurses, support workers, and care teams to bring meaningful music into daily dementia care. The 100 simple activity ideas can be used during:
One‑to‑one interactions
Group sessions
Times when residents need comfort, stimulation, or connection
Care‑home staff tell us that Take Note helps them:
Feel more confident using music
Find quick ideas that fit into busy routines
Build stronger relationships with residents
Create calmer, more engaging environments
For Unpaid Carers (Family & Friends)
Take Note is equally designed for family members, friends, and neighbours supporting an older adult at home. You don’t need musical experience — the activities are easy to follow and can be adapted to the person you care for.
Unpaid carers often use Take Note to:
Create moments of calm during challenging times
Spark conversation or connection when words are difficult
Share familiar songs that bring comfort or joy
Build small musical routines that support wellbeing
The activities work whether you have five minutes or an afternoon, and can be done with everyday objects — no instruments required.
Live Music Now also uses Take Note within its Live Music in Care programmes, helping care teams develop long‑term musical confidence.
Take Note Website
What are the Take Note resources?
Take Note includes 100 simple music‑based activity ideas created specifically for use with older people, particularly those living with dementia. The activities are designed so that anyone can use them, even if they have no musical training or confidence.
The resources are available:
- As a set of easy‑to‑use cards
- Online for free, with additional guidance, videos, and musical materials.
How the resources support dementia care
The Take Note activities focus on person‑centred care, encouraging carers to adapt music to each individual’s preferences, history, and abilities. Activities are grouped into themes such as:
- Listening to music
- Personal music‑making
- Group music‑making
- Using music to support mood, calm distress, and reduce anxiety
Music can help people living with dementia to:
- Feel calmer and more settled
- Express themselves when words are difficult
- Connect with others and feel a sense of belonging
- Reconnect with familiar memories and emotions
Video Resources
Live Music in Care Webinar – Making Music in Dementia Care with ‘Take Note’
- Introduction to the Take Note Resources, produced by Sounds of Intent
- Overview of what the resources contain and how to use them
- Example practical session as a way into using the resources
Live Music in Care Webinars – Music and Dementia Care
- A session on why using music is a key element in dementia care
- An overview of some of the evidence on why it works
- Examples from care settings of the use of music in the dementia living and caring experience
Live Music in Care Webinars – Leading Singing with People Living with Dementia
- Practical session on ways to set up, prepare for, and deliver a singing session with people living with dementia
- Example ideas of activities that could be led with tips on getting the best out of the activity
Live Music in Care Webinars – Leading Singing with People Living with Dementia
- Practical session on how to set up, prepare for, and lead a percussion session for people living with dementia
- Example activity ideas and techniques to engage participants