What happens when music becomes more than entertainment and starts to feel like medicine?

In this episode of Talking Dementia, Dr. Emily Silverman speaks with Kaylie Glenn, Founder and President of The Day By Day Project, a nonprofit transforming dementia care through the power of music, rhythm, and human connection.

Kaylie’s journey began at just 10 years old, when she played violin in a memory care community and witnessed a woman who had been nonverbal for months begin to sing along. That moment sparked a lifelong commitment to understanding how music can reach people living with dementia, even when language and memory fade.

With a background in neuroscience, Kaylie went on to create innovative programs like the Memory Disco, which combines rhythmic engagement, physical touch, and community connection to shift dementia care from passive listening to active participation. Today, her work engages students, caregivers, and care teams across the country and is supported by emerging research showing meaningful improvements in mood, behavior, and quality of life. This episode is a powerful reminder that people living with dementia are still there, and that connection, joy, and meaning remain possible.

About this episode’s featured guest

Kaylie Glenn is the Founder and President of The Day By Day Project, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of people living with dementia through music-based engagement. Inspired by early experiences playing violin in memory care communities, Kaylie studied neuroscience and developed innovative programs including the nationally recognized Memory Disco, that combine research, compassion, and creativity to support patients, caregivers, and care teams. Her work has earned national recognition and continues to shape new models of dementia care.

About Remo’s host Dr. Emily Silverman

Dr. Emily Silverman is an internal-medicine physician, Assistant Volunteer Professor of Medicine at UCSF. She is the creator and host of The Nocturnists, an award-winning medical storytelling program that has uplifted the voices of more than 450 clinicians since 2016 through its podcast and live performances. Her work has been supported by a MacDowell fellowship and widely published in numerous publications including JAMA, The New York Times, and NPR. Learn more about Emily by visiting her website.

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The information in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not the practice of medicine or any profession. It is not intended to be medical advice and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.