Real stories

Tony Christie stresses the importance of music for people with dementia

Along with Tony, a group of specially selected carers, including Zoe Antoniades - who was nominated by Alzheimer’s Society - feature on the remake of the hit song, as well as Alzheimer's Society's Swindon’s Singing for the Brain Freshbrook group.

Watch the video of the recording below:

Tony’s dementia story

Tony Christie is a musical legend, most famously known for his singing career with chart hits such as ‘Is this the way to Amarillo’.

In early 2022, Tony announced he was living with dementia.

He now uses his platform to encourage as many people as he can, not to be afraid and seek a diagnosis if they are worried about their memory.

Tony's dementia diagnosis

'About a year ago, January 2022, my wife, Sue, said I should go see a doctor as I kept forgetting things, so we made an appointment to see a specialist.

'It took a few months to get an appointment but after some MRI scans and other tests they said "yes, you have dementia".'

It was a shock, even though we knew there was a problem.

'It was Sue’s idea to go to the doctors, and I’m so pleased she encouraged me to.

'Originally, I thought it was to do with my age, as I was approaching 80. But I always enjoyed crosswords for years and suddenly I was struggling to do them. This was one of the first signs.'

Music helps to live well with dementia

'I’ve not had any changes in my singing, my voice is still the same as it was. The only change I’ve made in my performances is that I now have an auto queue available as a backup, just in case I need a reminder.

The doctor said I’m fortunate to be in the music business because of how much music helps dementia.

'I listen to it all the time – even when I’m not singing myself. It can really help take your mind off things.'

Tony’s advice to others affected by dementia

'Never be ashamed of it, I can’t say this enough.

'People often come up to me in the street and thank me for being so honest and sharing my experience. Some say their husbands, parents, etc., were ashamed to get a diagnosis.'

But I want to encourage everyone not to be ashamed or afraid and go to your doctors if you’re worried.

'Also, use music. Play an instrument if you’re able to or just listen to music. It’s a huge help.'

Thank You Day and Music for Dementia

I’m really looking forward to Thank You Day. I love working and I can’t wait to see everyone taking part.

'After that I’m off to Nashville to record a couple of albums and take some time out with my wife. I’m very fortunate that my work is music, but it also helps to keep busy.

'We’ve seen the fantastic response Thank You Day has already had, so it’s in my plan to do more dementia friendly shows. I know now how much of a need for it there is.'

Involving people affected by dementia

Nominated by Alzheimer’s Society, Zoe Antoniades is an author, but she used to sing in jazz clubs.

Though she now cares for her mum, she has continued her passion for music by contributing to the Singing for the Brain group in Osterley.

Zoe and her mum, Koula, have attended the group for over three years. She is now also an Alzheimer’s Society campaigner who also sings regularly for the group, both face-to-face and on Zoom.