A significant portion of Alzheimer’s research focuses on non-pharmaceutical approaches that can play an important role in a larger treatment plan. Music is one such intervention that can have a tremendous impact on Alzheimer’s-affected individuals. Studies show that music offers cognitive, emotional, and even behavioral benefits.
Scroll down to learn more about what music can do for Alzheimer’s-impacted individuals.
Music Therapy
Music therapy is facilitated by trained therapists who utilize music in group settings to provide a wide range of benefits to individuals experiencing cognitive decline. It generally involves singing, playing music, and using musical instruments.
Music Therapy: Fostering Connection
This type of therapy can be beneficial for engaging with Alzheimer’s-impacted individuals who have difficulty expressing themselves. Interestingly, research shows that music therapy can increase connection by fostering verbal and nonverbal communication as music accesses different parts of the brain than talking.
Music Therapy: Social Benefits
Music also provides social benefits by building community and fostering social connection. When communication through conversation is difficult, music can be an effective way to interact with and engage individuals living with Alzheimer’s.
Music therapy can foster connection and a sense of community, even for individuals who have lost facial recognition. Research shows that for groups of people experiencing cognitive decline, engaging with music leads to a reduction in certain disruptive behaviors. There is generally less restlessness and aggression because music provides an outlet for emotional release.
Integrating Music into Daily Life for Alzheimer’s Impacted Individuals
There are a variety of practical ways to bring music into daily routines. A few examples include:
- Mealtime Music: Meals can be challenging times for individuals living with cognitive decline and their caregivers. Playing music during mealtimes can lead to better eating habits by reducing anxiety.
- Calming Background Music: Playing calming background music can be a form of sound therapy. Calm music can help to create a peaceful atmosphere and even improve sleep.
- Playlists from the Past: Make a list of your favorite songs, melodies, and music from the past. Putting on this playlist can be a calming mood booster for individuals living with memory loss.
San Diego’s Top Memory Care and Senior Care Community
BayView Senior Assisted Living in Point Loma, California, is one of the top assisted living facilities in the greater San Diego area. We’re known for our compassionate caregivers, beautiful grounds, and personalized, individualized care.
We consider it an honor to walk alongside families as they navigate the challenging and heartbreaking journey of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. We understand that our residents’ holistic experience of life (social, spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical) is incredibly important. Our compassionate caregivers provide top-notch, individualized care to each member of our memory care communities.
Safe and Secure Senior Living Community with Hospice Accommodations
At BayView, we promote safety with a secured perimeter environment and trained staff available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our beautiful assisted living home and surrounding grounds are equipped with surveillance cameras in all public and outdoor spaces. Our home and spacious grounds meet all ADA requirements, including wide hallways, safety rails, shower chairs, and no lips or gaps at doorways. This allows for easy wheelchair and walker access, increasing residents' mobility.
