The effectiveness of individualised music therapy depends crucially on the right choice of music. The aim is to identify pieces of music that have had a personal, emotional significance in the life of the person concerned – usually from the period between the ages of 15 and 30. During this phase, music is experienced particularly intensively and stored emotionally, which makes it easier to recall later in life.

Helpful steps for compiling playlists::

1. Conduct biographical conversations:
   Relatives and carers can bring back memories of past musical preferences by asking specific questions. Questions such as ‘What music was played at family celebrations or when you were young?’ or ‘Was there a favourite song at your wedding or dance class?’ are particularly helpful.
2. Narrow down music genres and artists:
   As soon as a rough musical taste is known – e.g. German hits from the 50s or 60s, folk music, rock’n’roll or classical works – a more targeted search for suitable songs can be carried out.
3. Look through old sound carriers or collections:
   Records, cassettes or CDs that are still in the possession of the person concerned provide valuable information about favourite music from past decades.
4. Play music and observe reactions:
   It is often only when you listen to a song that you realise which songs are emotionally moving. It is therefore particularly important that listening is always accompanied until you have created the ideal playlist. Positive reactions such as smiling, humming along, relaxed behaviour or even tears of emotion can be good indicators. Negative reactions are also important to rule out unsuitable tracks.
5. Involve relatives:
   Children, grandchildren or spouses often remember certain ‘typical’ songs that were part of shared experiences – an invaluable treasure when creating a playlist.

The selection should be regularly reviewed and adjusted, as emotional approaches also change as dementia progresses. A good playlist is never final – it lives with the person.