The ReJAM research aims to develop Robots engaging elderly in Joint Activities with Music. It is a cooperation between the Delft University of Technology, TNO and other organizations, and connected to the Joint Artificial Intelligence Network “JAIN”. The objective of ReJAM is the promotion of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social wellbeing through various music-enriched activities, e.g. physical exercises, games, reminiscence, music listening, and making music together. The activities are designed especially for recurring meaningful (daily) activities: The ReJAM system is well-suited for use in meeting centers or together with (possibly remote) visitors at home.

Research indicates that music can have positive effects on people with dementia: it relaxes people, helps them during reminiscence, lifts their spirit and mood, and stimulates social connectedness. An important challenge is to personalise the music, the activities, and the interactions, while keeping the demands placed on caregivers at a low level. We have developed a list of requirements and envisioned interactions that together provide a blueprint for a system that fits the demands, needs, desires, values, and living environment of people with dementia. In ongoing research, this blueprint is extended and refined.