Aged Care Music Resources

The Musical Armchair Travels Program is a structured, music-based reminiscence activity designed specifically for people living with dementia. Using carefully selected music as memory triggers, participants are gently guided on imaginative journeys that encourage the sharing of past travel experiences and personal stories.

When the musical “trigger” works, participants begin recalling moments from their own lives — and when they start sharing those memories, you know the program is achieving its purpose.

This comprehensive training package equips facilitators with everything needed to confidently deliver engaging and therapeutic music-based sessions. The program has been developed to support aged care and community settings where meaningful engagement and quality of life are a priority.

The program consists of three key components:

  • A 48-minute training DVD demonstrating how to facilitate a session
  • A practical planning guide to help facilitators structure and personalise their journeys
  • Six ready-to-use Musical Armchair Travels sessions complete with music selections, journey themes and narrative notes to support delivery

Additional music titles and facilitator notes are included to assist in creating future sessions beyond the prepared journeys.

For new staff, or those with limited practical experience, this resource provides a ready-to-go framework with step-by-step guidance for running effective Musical Armchair Travels sessions.

For best results, the program is designed for small groups — ideally no more than six participants — allowing meaningful interaction and individual engagement. It is equally effective in one-to-one settings.