Music remains one of the most effective non-pharmacological interventions in aged care, particularly for people living with dementia. Its capacity to regulate mood, evoke autobiographical memory, and support social connection is well documented. Less frequently examined, however, is the method of delivery and the role this plays in engagement and therapeutic impact.

While streaming services and digital platforms are now commonplace, their suitability in dementia care environments warrants closer consideration. In many cases, simpler, familiar technologies—such as portable CD players—offer distinct advantages that align more closely with person-centred care principles.

Familiarity and Cognitive Accessibility

For today’s older cohort, CDs and CD players sit within a lifetime of learned experience. The physical actions involved—selecting a disc, opening the tray, inserting it, pressing play—are procedural memories that often remain intact long after other cognitive functions decline. These actions provide orientation, predictability, and reassurance.

By contrast, streaming devices tend to conceal process behind screens, icons, and remote controls, limiting opportunities for recognition or participation. Engagement begins only once the music is audible, rather than being embedded in a familiar sequence of actions.

The Therapeutic Value of Ritual

Person-centred care emphasises continuity, identity, and meaningful routine. The use of a CD player naturally supports these principles by reintroducing a recognisable ritual associated with earlier life. This ritual can be shared between facilitator and resident, reinforcing relational connection rather than passive consumption.

Importantly, the physical presence of the music medium allows residents to participate at their own level—whether choosing a disc, holding the case, or simply observing the process. These small moments of agency are clinically significant in dementia care.

Supporting Autobiographical Memory

Research consistently shows that music associated with a person’s formative years has the strongest impact on memory recall and emotional regulation. Purpose-selected CDs—curated by era, genre, or theme—support intentional programming that aligns with a resident’s life story.

The tangible nature of CDs reinforces anticipation and emotional readiness. The pause between insertion and playback, however brief, allows space for recognition, conversation, and emotional priming—elements largely absent from algorithm-driven playlists.

Simplicity as a Clinical Strength

In care environments, simplicity is not a limitation but a safeguard. Technologies that are intuitive, robust, and transparent reduce cognitive load for residents and operational complexity for staff. CD players require minimal training, are less prone to connectivity issues, and support consistent delivery across settings.

For facilitators, this simplicity enables full presence with residents, rather than attention being divided between care and device management.

Conclusion

The question is not whether modern technology has a place in aged care—it does. Rather, it is whether the chosen technology supports therapeutic intent, cognitive accessibility, and person-centred engagement.

In dementia care particularly, familiar, tactile technologies such as CD players continue to offer measurable value. They support memory, agency, emotional connection, and relationship-based practice. In a sector increasingly driven by innovation, there remains a strong case for retaining tools that are simple, recognisable, and deeply human.

• Alzheimer’s Society (UK) – Music and Dementia

• Dementia Australia – Music, Memory and Dementia

• Kitwood, T. (1997). Dementia Reconsidered: The Person Comes First

• Gerdner, L. A. (2000). Effects of individualized music on agitation in elderly people with dementia