The Soundtrack of Precious Moments
Which precious moments in your life have a soundtrack? Perhaps it’s your first dance at your wedding, a memorable party, or lullabies sung by a parent. Music can transport us, bringing back beautiful moments long after they occur. Its power is so strong that it may even transcend conditions like Alzheimer’s.
What Research Shows
Research on music’s impact on Alzheimer’s patients is limited, but it shows great promise. A systematic review from the National Library of Medicine found that music benefits memory deficits. Another review by Frontiers noted “unambiguous” positive effects on the health of individuals with Alzheimer’s, improving memory, cognition, social behavior, mood, and quality of life.
Potential Benefits of Music for Seniors with Alzheimer’s
While the benefits of music for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia need more exploration, many senior living communities report positive impacts.
Expressing Feelings and Finding Social Connection
Music evokes strong emotions and encourages personal expression. Studies suggest it can improve behavioral issues and reduce agitation in those with late-stage Alzheimer’s. A shared love of music can help seniors socialize and form connections. Remarkably, many seniors with Alzheimer’s can still sing or hum their favorite songs, even when they struggle to communicate verbally. Music can thus help patients connect with others as their disease progresses.
Encouraging Physical Activity
Dancing or seated movement can help seniors enjoy the benefits of physical activity. Regular exercise counters bone density loss, improves cardiovascular health, relieves joint stiffness, and boosts mood. It may also slow cognitive decline and prevent chronic diseases common in older age.
Helping Them Reminisce
Have you ever heard a song that transported you back to a significant memory? Music serves as a bridge between past and present, even for those with dementia. For many seniors with Alzheimer’s, music can help retrieve memories and enhance recall. This opens the door for reminiscing, a powerful tool for supporting individuals with neurocognitive conditions.
Reminiscence therapy enriches the lives of memory care residents in senior communities. It can alleviate depression by allowing seniors to rediscover fond memories and share fascinating life stories. Many enjoy reflecting on their past; this can be a profoundly empowering and social experience.
Promoting Peace and Calm
Playing relaxing music can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress in seniors with dementia. It can also provide soothing distraction during grooming or medical procedures.
Incorporating Music into Daily Life
Whether your loved one lives at home or in a senior care community, there are simple ways to weave music into their routine:
- Listen or sing along to favorite songs together.
- Encourage joining a choir or singing group for socialization.
- Create a playlist of nostalgic songs from their youth.
- Watch and sing along to a musical together.
- Help them rediscover an old musical hobby, like playing an instrument.
Music at Alpine View Lodge Assisted Living
As a leading memory care provider in San Diego, we see the therapeutic benefits of music for seniors with dementia firsthand. We offer various dancing, singing, and musical activities for residents to enjoy. Our regular music-focused events include concerts featuring local choirs and musicians. These events spark joy, inspiration, and social connection among residents, fostering a sense of community while supporting talented local artists.
Though further scientific research is needed, the impact of music on those with dementia is often evident in memory care and senior living communities. To learn more about the creative and musical activities we offer, visit our website or call us to schedule a tour. Let us know if your loved one is interested in a specific activity or event, and we will arrange a visit at a convenient time.