Record player appeal for dementia patients

Music in the round found to help trigger many sufferers’ memories

By Gary Cruden

Published: 19/01/2010

PLAY TIME: Jenny Selbie, of Netherley, is asking for old record players for care-home residents. Colin Rennie

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A NORTH-EAST woman has appealed for donations of old record players to help in the treatment of dementia patients.

Jenny Selbie, of Emohruo, Netherley, near Stonehaven, said she was inspired to try to track down the machines after hearing about the problems faced by dementia patients and how music could help trigger old memories. Miss Selbie, 58, said: “They are like gold dust. You can’t get them in the second-hand shops and to buy new are so expensive. It is trying to get them that is the problem.

“I think, as you get older, you are more aware of dementia and how isolating it can be for them and their families. There must be loads of people with record players in lofts that could bring pleasure to people in need. Unfortunately, the CD doesn’t do it for them. They like to see the old records going round and round – it’s nostalgic for them.

“The music can help to stimulate their memories and give them some sunshine in their dark world.”

Alison Nicolson, manager at the Woodside Care Home, Mugiemoss, Aberdeen, said: “We have one in the home. Certainly, if they have their own collection then record players are better. Music certainly helps with their memories and our activities organiser certainly uses it in that way.

“It would be great if anyone could donate one to the home.”

Anyone with a record player they are willing to donate can contact the home on 01224 662400.