Table 3 Additional comments offered across the six-week program by carers, PWD and the facilitator relating to matters considered to be of importance, but not related to the target behaviours

Carer 5

6

Positive identity construction

‘The thing I’ve noticed about this experience is how it shows him in a good light. I often look at him and think “that’s not the man I married”. But then since I’ve been hearing him singing and looking and behaving like a normal man and I think “that’s him, he’s still my husband in there.’”

Facilitator

6

Positive memories/reminiscence

‘The work stimulates memories– the reminiscence of how the person was, but also how the person with dementia can remember things. It is often quite moving to experience the impact of that memory light bulb switching on.’

Carer 2

6

Socio-emotional connection

It is remarkable, the singing has been remembered from week to week and today we were really eager to get here. I’m so pleased the group is continuing. You can make friends through this sort of group.

PWD 3

4

Proximity

‘Nice having everyone so close and around you.’

Carer 3

6

‘We both enjoy the closeness. It is good to feel the others huddled around, swaying with you in the music.’