Listening to or Singing Songs Benefits Those with Dementia

The Mayo Clinic reports on research that suggests listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioral benefits for people with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. They explain the reason may be that “musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer's disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.”  Listening to music can help relieve stress, reduce anxiety and depression, and reduce agitation. 

Music can bring back memories to those even in the most advanced stages of Alzheimer’s.  Alzheimers.net quotes neurologist Oliver Sacks, who says, “Music evokes emotion, and emotion can bring with it memory… it brings back the feeling of life when nothing else can.”  When music is incorporated into the everyday activities of someone with dementia, it can help them to recall memories of that activity and improve cognitive ability over time. 

Research has shown that some of the last two abilities in Alzheimer’s patients are musical abilities and the appreciation of it, which is why it is such an effective way to try and reach the essence of the person.  It has also been found to help those in the more advanced stages of the disease to express and share emotions with their caregivers through dancing or moving along with the rhythm.  The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America says, “When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements.”   

MorningStar of Beaverton is one of the top assisted living communities in the area offering dedicated memory care.  As dementia care specialists, our training and experience has given us a deep understanding of the disease.  Our holistic approach includes leveraging the power of dance, music, art, exercise, animals and aromatherapy to heal and comfort.  Please contact us to learn about our assisted living and memory care community.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  Please contact us to learn more about our exceptional assisted living and memory care community. 

Sources:

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/music-and-alzheimers/faq-20058173

alzheimers.net/why-music-boosts-brain-activity-in-dementia-patients/

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321677.php