The My Music NC program helps families identify the music most likely to resonate with the listener — songs connected to identity, relationships, and meaningful life moments.
Research shows that the music we hear most during our teen and young adult years (roughly ages 10–30) often becomes deeply embedded in memory — sometimes called the
“reminiscence bump.” These songs are closely tied to who we are and may still spark recognition, emotion, or the urge to sing along as memory changes.
The My Music NC Playlist Builder uses this idea to create a personalized starter playlist. The tool asks about favorite artists and songs, musical background and interests (such as
playing an instrument, dancing, or singing), favorite genres, language, where the listener grew up, and spiritual traditions.
Using this information, the tool generates a playlist designed to reconnect the listener with meaningful music personalized to their unique tastes and background.
The Music & Memory at Home equipment kits are reserved for North Carolina residents living with dementia at home, either alone or with a family care partner.
Families supporting someone who lives in assisted living, memory care, or another residential setting are warmly invited to use the My Music NC Playlist Builder, which provides tools, resources, and guidance for creating a meaningful music program.
Both options begin with the My Music NC Playlist Builder, which helps identify the songs most likely to resonate with your listener. You will be prompted to choose the pathway that best fits your situation.
This program is designed and funded for people living with dementia, and their family care partners, who are residing at home in North Carolina.
Music & Memory at Home Kits include:
• A dementia‑friendly music player preloaded with personalized MP3 playlists
• Comfortable Bluetooth-optional over‑ear headphones
• A streaming playlist link for use with smart devices
Families may also choose to participate in a Music Party, a virtual listening session hosted by trained volunteers to refine their playlist for optimal engagement and enjoyment.
We call these Zoom sessions “Music Parties” because they can be a lot of fun, but our primary goal is to maximize the impact personalized music can have in your home.
After completing your application, you will be prompted to select a day and time for your listening session. If none of the available sessions work with your schedule, please email us and we can find a time that does.
This option is intended for those listeners that may not need equipment or volunteer support, or do not qualify for the Music Kit pathway, but want help getting started with personalized playlists.
Using the My Music NC Playlist Builder can help you discover meaningful songs, generate a personalized starter playlist, and connect with educational resources that support using music as part of daily care and connection.
When you click the button below, the My Music NC Playlist Builder will guide you through creating a personalized playlist and selecting the pathway that fits your situation.
If you do not use email or the internet, and qualify for a Music & Memory at Home Kit, you may request a paper application by phone. Call (919) 832-3732.
Since 2019, Dementia Alliance of NC has been a certified Music & Memory at Home provider. Music & Memory ® is a service of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function (IMNF), a leader in advancing the therapeutic power of music to awaken, stimulate, and heal. musicandmemory.org
