The Benefits Of Music Therapy For Seniors With Alzheimer’s
Music therapy is often recommended for seniors who have Alzheimer’s. Listening to familiar music can be soothing to seniors who have Alzheimer’s. But did you know that playing music or listening to music can actually have huge cognitive benefits for seniors that have Alzheimer’s? It’s true. Studies show that music therapy has some impressive benefits for seniors with Alzheimer’s like:
Improved Memory Recall
Music uniquely evokes memories and emotions. In seniors with Alzheimer’s, it often triggers recollections tied to specific songs or melodies. Such therapy even helps individuals in advanced stages of the disease recall and engage with music. This leads to improved cognitive function and mental clarity. For example, your senior parent might respond well to songs from their favorite musical or artist. This reaction is likely because the music triggers powerful memories.
Emotional Expression
Music has a profound impact on emotions. Listening to familiar and beloved tunes can evoke positive emotions, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall mood. Music therapy provides an avenue for emotional expression, allowing seniors with Alzheimer’s to communicate and connect with their feelings even when verbal communication becomes challenging. When seniors who have Alzheimer’s are agitated or upset, playing music for them can often help them calm down.
Reduction of Agitation and Anxiety
Alzheimer’s can sometimes lead to increased levels of agitation and anxiety. Music therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing these symptoms. The soothing and calming effects of music can create a more relaxed environment, promoting a sense of comfort and security for seniors with Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s home care providers often play music for seniors who are agitated as a way to relieve anxiety and redirect their attention.
Improved Sleep Quality
Sleep disturbances are common among individuals with Alzheimer’s. Music therapy, especially calming and slow-tempo music, can contribute to better sleep quality. Establishing a routine of listening to calming music before bedtime may help seniors with Alzheimer’s relax and improve their overall sleep patterns.
Stimulation of Neurological Pathways
Listening to or playing music activates various areas of the brain, even in individuals with Alzheimer’s. This stimulation of neurological pathways can temporarily improve cognitive function, memory recall, and overall brain activity. Regular exposure to music therapy may contribute to the maintenance of cognitive abilities over time. If your senior parent was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, starting music therapy may help slow down the progression of the disease.
Encouragement of Physical Movement
Music has the power to inspire movement. For seniors with Alzheimer’s, music therapy can encourage physical activity through activities like dancing or tapping along to the rhythm. This not only provides a form of exercise but also enhances coordination and flexibility. Putting on music and encouraging your senior parent to dance or move around can help their physical health as well as their mental health.
If you have a senior parent with Alzheimer’s who is getting Alzheimer’s home care, sit down with the care provider and make out some playlists of your senior parent’s favorite songs. Playing music for them throughout the day makes them happier and healthier.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Home Care in San Diego, CA please contact the caring staff at La Jolla Nurses Homecare today. Call (858) 454-9339
La Jolla Nurses Homecare is a top provider of home care services in San Diego, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carmel Valley, Point Loma, Bankers Hill, Mission Hills, Kensington, Coronado, University City, Pacific Beach, and all of San Diego County.
Today we are the oldest and most experienced private duty agency in San Diego County.She saw a need for quality private duty home health care and she worked diligently to build an agency that filled that need.I am proud to say, her vision is carried on today with our dedicated staff.
I believe our tenure in the community speaks well for us.We have had the opportunity to be of service to countless interesting individuals, including local and worldwide celebrities.It is the people we care for that makes this a fascinating industry.Whether high profile or a more ordinary citizen, we are proud that thousands have entrusted us with their care or the care of their loved ones.Our Mission is to provide high quality, very secure and the most compassionate home health care.We believe that patients heal faster and are happiest when they can stay in their homes.”
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