Memory Loss Music Player

The Memory Loss Music Player was inspired to make music easy to play for a person living with dementia. The simple interface with one knob to control volume and another knob to change a song is reminiscent of an old-style radio. This device is simple to build, maintain, and operate.

A note from the designer (DQ Music Box):

My dad could no longer operate a CD player or iPod. But he could use the music player that I designed and made for him, because it operates like a familiar two-knob radio. I was inspired to make this by the documentary Alive Inside which shows the profound joy felt by some people with dementia when listening to their favorite music.

Connect the device to a power source. Load music onto the USB stick and plug that into the player. Turn the 'Volume' knob to turn on the power and adjust the volume. Use the 'Song' knob to go to the next song or return to a previous song.

This device is intended for people experiencing memory loss and other cognition and learning disabilities including dementia and Alzheimer's.

The device is an intermediate build difficulty that involves 3D printing, laser cutting and assembly.

The Memory Loss Music device is available in several different models. You can find detailed instructions on how to build one at DQ Music Box Instructions, or at the following links:

• Classic Radio
• 50's Style Radio in Wood
• Deluxe Classic Radio

Watch the Make video by DQ Music Box here: YouTube - Make A Dementia Friendly Music Player

Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International