Music Therapy Boosts Brain Activity for Dementia Patients!

There are many reasons we experience memory issues like lack of sleep, medications, stress, drinking too much alcohol, and depression.

As we age it’s not uncommon to forget words or where the car keys are, which doesn’t mean there’s cause for alarm.

If this is a concern for you, it’s wise to make an appointment with a medical professional.

What’s Dementia?

Dementia is a general term for loss of memory and other mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. It’s caused by physical changes in the brain.

What’s Alzheimer’s?

Al’s.org describes Alzheimer’s as a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

Did you know that the majority of people with Alzheimer’s disease are 65 and older?

How Does Music Help With Alzheimer’s disease?

One way to help your loved one, is to play their favorite songs from their past because memories are frequently preserved in Alzheimer’s disease.

The areas in the brain linked to musical memory, are somewhat undamaged by the disease.

Music may improve behavioral issues and reduce agitation, and a great way to connect, even after verbal communication becomes difficult.

Here are 4 reasons researchers believe that music boosts brain activity.

1. Music evokes emotions that bring memories.
3. Music can bring emotional and physical closeness.
4. Singing is engaging.
5. Music can shift mood, manage stress and stimulate positive interactions.

As Alzfdn.org mentions, “Selections from the individual’s young adult years—ages 18 to 25—are most likely to have the strongest responses and the most potential for engagement.”

Check out this touching video from the documentary “Alive Inside”.

Dance Therapy

Like singing, dance therapy helps Alzheimer’s patients, because it of the effect it has on the memory.

Stimulating specific areas of the brain has shown to improve the symptoms, and keep the disease from progressing.

Dance/movement therapy reduces anxiety, stimulates social interaction, enhances mood, and increases self-awareness and self-expression.

Check out this inspiring dance therapy video.

Incorporating dance as part of the therapeutic treatment has shown to improve the quality of life of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Music Therapy

A music therapist is a person who is trained to use music as a tool to help participants meet their wellness goals.

It’s common for these types of therapists to be on the staff of hospice organizations. They engage with participants in sing-a-longs, breathing exercises, drumming, and other movements set to music. Some therapists will play the harp or other instruments, for seniors who receive hospice care.

Self-Care

Remember, if you have loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease, you are probably focused on their needs. It’s easy to fall into the trap of neglecting your own self-care. If you’re not getting the support you need, you won’t be able to provide the best level of care. You may feel overwhelmed and suffer burnout.

Does someone you know suffer from Alzheimer’s who’s tried music therapy? Please leave a comment.