Music for Dementia Patients: Boosting Mood & Memory with Music
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 50 million people worldwide have dementia. Every year, 10 million new cases arise and by 2030 it's expected there will be 82 million cases.
Suffering from dementia is scary, but there are steps you can take to lessen its effects. Adopting healthy eating habits is one step.
But music for dementia patients is also showing promise. Music and memory are tied together.
If you're wondering how music therapy and Alzheimer's work together, keep reading. You're about to learn some amazing music therapy facts.
Why Music for Dementia Patients Is Effective
Most people don't hit the gym and listen to classical music in order to get their energy up. That's because faster music makes you feel more alert.
And when you're watching the movie "Jaws" on mute, it's not nearly as scary as it is when you can hear the music.
Music as Medicine
Music with a slower tempo can actually be used to relieve stress, reduce anxiety and depression, and even reduce agitation. In fact, researchers at Stanford University stated that "listening to music seems to be able to change brain functioning to the same extent as medication".
But music does far more than just reduce stress.
Music and Memory
Everyone remembers their wedding song. And when you hear it again, it evokes an emotion, even in the most advanced stages of Alzheimer's.
Simply by pairing music with a patient's everyday activities, it helps dementia patients to develop a rhythm to help them recall the memory of that activity. Over time it can help improve their cognitive ability.
In fact, music appreciation and aptitude are among the last remaining abilities patients with Alzheimer's have. That makes music an excellent way to reach a person beyond their disease.
Singing and Engaging the Brain
Dementia and music therapy works to engage with the patient. Singing activates the left side of the brain while listening to music activates the right side of the brain.
Singing proves to be a powerful exercise for the brain as a whole.
Elevating Moods
Playing the right type of music is half the battle. Death metal won't help calm down a patient with dementia.
But when used appropriately, music helps shift and elevate moods. It helps to manage stress and even coordinate motor movements.
That's because singing music doesn't require any cognitive function that is no longer present in most patients with dementia.
How to Use Music Therapy with Dementia Patients
Start off by considering the dementia patient's preferences. If they hate show tunes but love jazz, play what they like. Play songs you think will evoke happy memories.
Ask friends and family for suggestions and make playlists.
Set the Mood and Avoid Overstimulation
It's a good idea to play upbeat music during mealtimes or around hygiene routines to help keep your loved one calm. You can also sing a tune they enjoy if you don't have music.
When playing music or singing, eliminate any competing noises such as the tv or radio. Avoid confusing the patient by playing music that can't be interrupted by commercials.
Set the volume level based on their hearing abilities.
Get Active
Both you and your loved one can get active by dancing, tapping, clapping and/or dancing along to the music.
Pay attention to their response. Make sure to only play music they react positively to.
Take Care of Yourself
While playing music for dementia patients has positive effects, it's not a miracle worker. Day-to-day care is tough for both the patient and their caregiver.
Don't forget to take care of yourself. Click here for some tips on avoiding burnout.
