BEING forgotten or losing personal connections are the two main concerns for people in the North-East worrying about a loved one developing dementia, according to new researcher.

Music is a powerful form of therapy that can help to evoke memories and overcome the loss of connections that dementia inflicts, according to research by Bupa Care Homes.

The study reveals that 81 per cent of people have experienced a vivid memory when listening to a particular song or piece of music. In addition, a further 85 per cent agree that music reminds them of a time (such as a past holiday they enjoyed), or person, in their lives. Despite this, only 10 per cent would think of using music to connect with someone living with dementia.

What's more, less than a third of respondents could name an important song and its significance for their parents (e.g. it was played at their wedding) and only 54 per cent could for a partner, even though music has the ability trigger memories.

With an estimated 950,000 people across the UK expected to be living with dementia by 2021, Bupa is encouraging everyone to discover their parents' and partners' "memory playlist" in order to keep powerful connections alive in later life.

At Bupa Care Homes, trained carers use music therapy to create connections with residents, including encouraging residents to play musical instruments, sing along to the piano and songs from their past.