Bring Back Memories with Music

Music as Therapy in Dementia and Alzheimer's Care

Can music soothe the mind of an Alzheimer’s patient? Yes, I have seen this first hand. Music from the patient’s youth that is well known can trigger memories and reduce the agitation many patients endure with the frustrations of not knowing where or even who they are. The familiar music offers them peace, finally something they understand and can remember. Music with lyrics that the patient knows, can trigger singing from a previously silent status. While language is lost for many as the disease ravages their minds, song remains, verses make sense to many in this situation.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients that are non-mobile can hear music and tap toes, some even dance and move to the music. Motion is key to quality of life, giving music to an Alzheimer’s or Dementia patient can revive their mobility and for many, improve their mentation. Those singsong melodies we learned as children, Broadway scores we loved as young adults, favorite concerts we heard along the way, can all relive happy memories and bring us to sing along. Music may be the best exercise program for people suffering from these debilitating diseases.

Music can sooth, reduce violence and entertain the patients like nothing else. Finding what the patient has a passion for may take time, but once discovered, it can change the world for both the patient and the caregiver. With a memory disorder, short term may be lost, but the music remains, and can be played over and over again to the delight of the Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients.

Right at Home is ready to help you care for your loved ones as they age in place with custom care plans to help you reduce stress. Respite care is critical for your well-being, let us help you to keep your loved one’s cared for when you cannot be there. Call us today for a custom care plan for your loved one with Alzheimer’s and/or Dementia (614) 734-1110