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The Benefits of Music Therapy for Dementia Patients

It’s well-known that music is a universal language – one that speaks to us all on a primal level. It creates the soundtrack to many of our days, including some of our most cherished moments, and also has the ability to both lift our spirits and soothe us too. And, while music is an important part of many people’s lives, the benefits of music therapy for dementia patients is especially poignant. Tapping into memories and emotions on a different level, it can be a powerful tool for those living with dementia and its symptoms.  

So, what are some of the benefits of music therapy for dementia patients?

Why Music Matters

According to NHS England, there is a lot of research to indicate that music can both elevate mood and trigger memories. Particularly significant when linked to extra special occasions, such as songs from childhood, wedding dances, special celebrations and so on, music can transport the listener to particular periods or places in time – even evoking the same feelings experienced in that moment. For example, have you ever heard a song played on the radio and found yourself reminiscing about a happy time spent with friends, a holiday somewhere beautiful, or a dance in the arms of a loved one? That’s what music can do.

As such, music is an extremely powerful means of connecting people with their pasts and creating a sentimental link to significant moments in time. What’s more, as well as providing a cherished portal to times gone by, music can also have a very emotive effect in the present. Listening to a favourite song, or hearing a loved one’s favourite song, can instantly trigger feel-good endorphins, reduce heart rate and blood pressure, relax muscles, and even help to manage depression, anxiety, and pain. Be it creating music, singing to music, dancing to music, or simply listening to music – the effects of music therapy for dementia patients are just as powerful.

How Music Therapy benefits People with Dementia

If you are considering ways to help someone who is living with dementia, then music therapy can provide an invaluable resource.

Depending on the situation, music can help to:

-              Focus attention and concentration

-              Improve cognitive function

-              Create a link to special memories

-              Encourage topics of conversation

-              Express feelings and soothe emotions

-              Assist both verbal and verbal communication

As well as the auditory benefits, music therapy for dementia patients can also be used to encourage active participation in music too. With scientific evidence showing that musical memory is different to other types of memory, it’s believed that music and its associated practices are hardwired into the brain as ‘implicit memory’, and therefore less susceptible to the effects of dementia. This means that, even as dementia progresses, those living with its symptoms can still use music to tap into innate abilities and learnt skills, such as singing, dancing and performing.

This means that engaging in music can support those with dementia to:

-              Regain and maintain a valuable sense of self

-              Exercise favourite pastimes

-              Practice coordination and mobility (especially with dancing or playing instruments)

-              Evoke positive feelings of purpose and pride

-              Connect with loved ones and social groups

-              Share a personal story and journey

-              Reduce stress and boost feel-good hormones

Tips for Introducing Music Therapy

When it comes to the benefits of music therapy for dementia patients, it’s true that there are lots of positive avenues to pursue. That said, it’s important that any new practices are introduced sensitively and considerately and are tailored to individual needs, requirements and interests. To get started, it’s important to:

-              Understand individual backstories and preferences

-              Choose a safe, comfortable environment

-              Introduce music therapy gradually and empathetically

-              Start with familiar, gentle music in short stints (nothing overwhelming)

-              Observe emotional and physical responses, and seek feedback

-              Encourage simple participation, like humming and tapping

-              Engage gently and move on if necessary (remember, not everyone enjoys the same things – and that’s perfectly okay)

-              Be prepared for emotional responses

-              Offer a supportive hand if it’s needed

If music therapy is proving to be a hit, you can also look at offering music therapy for dementia patients in a group environment, as well as individually. This can be enjoyed both at home and in care settings. Listening and singing to music from a particular era and encouraging shared experiences can be a really positive way of connecting people and creating a sense of familiarity and community. Play songs through the radio, sing together in groups, and even arrange live performances for a really captivating experience.

Want some device advice?

The Alzheimer’s Society has written a guide to the best radios and music players for people with dementia. These are specifically designed to be easy to use for those living with dementia, meaning that music can be accessed and enjoyed at the press of a button, ready for favourite tunes and feel-good moments.

Wisteria House Care Home

At Wisteria House, we have three independent care homes in Plymouth for people living with dementia. We provide a safe, familiar and comfortable environment to be enjoyed by our residents and their family members. If you would like to find out more about our care homes and how we share music therapy, please feel free to get in touch.