An elderly woman with short gray hair and a floral shirt is sitting in a chair, making a fist with her right hand, next to a young woman with long light brown hair playing an acoustic guitar, arms crossed, sitting in a chair in a casual indoor setting with a counter, chairs, television, and bulletin board in the background.

Music Therapy for Older Adults with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias

No matter where your loved one is on their journey through Alzheimer’s and related dementias, music therapy can be a wonderful therapeutic option to consider. Music and it’s effect on the brain is a widely-researched topic in the field of memory care. While there is still plenty to learn, we know that music (including the lyrics, melodies, and other components of patient-preferred music) and memory are highly-connected areas in our neurological makeup; our musical memories are one of the longest lasting cognitive elements for those suffering from dementia. Music therapy goals for individuals in memory care may include:

  • Discussion through musical reminiscence

  • Language utilization through singing of preferred songs

  • Grounding and relaxation

  • Emotional reconnection with caregivers and loved ones

 

For more information, check out the link below!

https://www.musictherapy.org/assets/1/7/FactSheet_Music_Therapy_and_Dementia_Care_2021.pdf