Music has long been celebrated for its ability to transcend barriers, evoke memories, and stir emotions. For individuals living with dementia, these qualities can become a lifeline to a world that often feels increasingly distant. In Newcastle, a choir aptly named 'The Unforgettables' is harnessing the power of music to offer support, joy, and a sense of community to those affected by this challenging condition.

The Unforgettables is more than just a choir; it's a beacon of hope for people like Bryan Dunn, a former social worker from Newcastle who was diagnosed with dementia about 18 months ago. The diagnosis was a heavy blow for Bryan and his wife, Marie, plunging them into a state of shock and uncertainty. However, the choir has become a vital part of their journey, helping them navigate the complexities of dementia with the support of music and camaraderie.


Every Saturday afternoon, the choir's 40 or so members gather in Newcastle's CBD, united by a shared love for music and a common struggle against dementia. The choir's mission is to provide a creative outlet for participants and their family carers, fostering support and social connections that extend beyond the weekly rehearsals.


The inception of The Unforgettables was inspired by a personal story shared with University of Newcastle Associate Professor Helen English. A close friend lamented that her mother, a choir enthusiast developing dementia, could no longer participate in regular choirs. This prompted Professor English to establish a choir tailored to the needs of those with dementia, with the help of Michelle Kelly, an Associate Professor in clinical psychology with expertise in improving the lives of older people.


The power of music in dementia care cannot be overstated. Dementia Australia estimates that 421,000 Australians are currently living with dementia, a number expected to nearly double over the next three decades. Dementia progressively impairs cognitive functions, affecting thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Yet, music remains one of the most potent triggers for memory, capable of evoking recollections and emotions that might otherwise remain locked away.

Professor English emphasises the profound impact music can have on individuals with dementia. A familiar melody can transport a person back to a cherished moment, allowing them to access memories and emotions that seemed out of reach. For couples affected by dementia, sharing a song can be a deeply intimate experience, providing a rare opportunity to connect in the present moment.

The choir's benefits extend to the carers as well. Gwynne Travis-Varnes, whose husband George was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia eight years ago, has witnessed a positive transformation in George since joining The Unforgettables. Initially silent, George now sings along and enjoys the music, a testament to the choir's nurturing environment.


For Marie Dunn, observing how other families cope with dementia has been enlightening and comforting. The choir offers a space where family carers can exchange ideas, learn about available services, and find solace in the understanding that they are not alone in their struggles.

The Unforgettables is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unifying power of music. With plans to expand and create more dementia choirs in the Hunter region, starting with Lake Macquarie, the hope is that more individuals and families will find solace and joy in the midst of their challenges.
As we celebrate the incredible work of The Unforgettables, we invite our readers to share their experiences with music and dementia. Have you witnessed the transformative effects of music in the lives of those with dementia? Do you know of similar initiatives that are making a difference in your community? Join the conversation and let us know in the comments below. Together, we can continue to support and uplift those touched by dementia through the universal language of music.