Music entertains and relaxes us.
We use it as motivation and to ward off boredom at the gym. We also use it on our commute to and from work, hoping it has a calming effect during rush hour. It’s difficult to imagine life without music and now it’s being used as a powerful tool for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia.
According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, “Music has power—especially for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. And it can spark compelling outcomes even in the very late stages of the disease. When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function, and coordinate motor movements.”
Studies have shown that many of those stricken with Alzheimer’s disease still are capable of remembering songs from their past. In fact, many remember certain songs well enough that they can sing along to them even when they are at advanced stages of the disease. While they may not be able to remember their own family and friends, they often can remember certain music and songs.
Because of the success of music, many senior retirement communities that offer specialized Alzheimer’s care are using it as part of its caregiving and recreational programming.
There has even been some growing evidence in recent years that by listening to music, some seemingly lost memories come back, while some aspects of cognitive functioning are maintained.
The ability to share emotions is one of the things that those with Alzheimer’s lose as the disease progresses. By incorporating music into one’s life, it’s not uncommon for some emotions to still be able to be shared.
While it’s not a cure for the disease, there’s no doubt that music therapy is good medicine and a welcome addition in helping those suffering.
Call (224) 333-6247
www.shepherd360Tour.com
According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, “Music has power—especially for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. And it can spark compelling outcomes even in the very late stages of the disease. When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function, and coordinate motor movements.”
Studies have shown that many of those stricken with Alzheimer’s disease still are capable of remembering songs from their past. In fact, many remember certain songs well enough that they can sing along to them even when they are at advanced stages of the disease. While they may not be able to remember their own family and friends, they often can remember certain music and songs.
Because of the success of music, many senior retirement communities that offer specialized Alzheimer’s care are using it as part of its caregiving and recreational programming.
There has even been some growing evidence in recent years that by listening to music, some seemingly lost memories come back, while some aspects of cognitive functioning are maintained.
The ability to share emotions is one of the things that those with Alzheimer’s lose as the disease progresses. By incorporating music into one’s life, it’s not uncommon for some emotions to still be able to be shared.
While it’s not a cure for the disease, there’s no doubt that music therapy is good medicine and a welcome addition in helping those suffering.
Call (224) 333-6247
www.shepherd360Tour.com
