BBC Music launches site to trigger memories for those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's

The Music Memories site will hold over 1,800 songs, classic TV theme tunes and classical pieces from the last century.

Launched as part of BBC Music Day, the new site aims to help dementia and Alzheimer's patients to relive their memories with music, and in turn hopes to build a database that will be successful in triggering patients' memories.

Speaking to the BBC, Snow Patrol's Gary Lightbody, whose father has dementia, explains, "Music can have such a powerful effect, It fires all sorts of things in the brain much more immediately than anything else can, whether it be pictures or old home movies or conversations. Music can somehow take you to a place of your youth, or an important part of your life you may not otherwise have access to."

The links between music therapy and improvements in those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's has become more relevant in recent years, although the BBC point out that only 5% of care homes use music as a therapy option.

Playlist For Life have already experienced success in their music therapy programs. At Glasgow's Lillyburn Care Home a Playlist For Life program has resulted in a 60% reduction in the use of anti-psychotic medication.

With a playlist stretching into the 2010's, is it possible that even some of today's stars, like Kendrick Lamar, The Weeknd, Lorde and Rihanna, could help people living with dementia?

BBC Music Day also sees Pulp and Happy Mondays go head-to-head in a Bargain Hunt special, while Kylie Minogue is dishing out train announcements across the country.

Blossoms did a special performance at Manchester's Piccadilly station, while Amy Macdonald gave commuters at Glasgow's Central station a special show.