As more and more research pours in, it appears that music is a powerful ally when providing Alzheimer’s care to seniors. Beyond just providing entertainment, music has the remarkable power to help people with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia unlock memories, reduce anxiety, and strengthen emotional bonds.
Understanding this and how to incorporate music into the Alzheimer’s care plan is key to ensuring seniors have the resources and support they need.
Music: Connecting to Memories
Unfortunately, for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, memories become elusive. However, studies have shown that music might possess the power to fight back against some memory loss, bringing back long-forgotten memories and flashes of clarity. For instance, a well-known song from their early years can take seniors back in time as they enjoy feelings of recognition and a sense of self amid the confusion of cognitive decline.
Music: Reducing Anger and Aggression
Restlessness, agitation, and anxiety are just a few of the ways Alzheimer’s disease can present itself. These symptoms can be upsetting for both seniors and those providing Alzheimer’s care. It’s thought that music has the ability to soothe tense nerves and calm the mind, which lowers their levels of agitation and anxiety. Whether it be with soft melodies or steady beats, music provides healing, which is key when faced with Alzheimer’s. Also, music is readily available, so adding it to seniors routines is easy.
Music: Improving Mental Capabilities
Apart from its emotional and psychological advantages, music can potentially improve cognitive function in seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease as well. Singing, playing an instrument, or even just engaging in basic rhythmic activities can engage multiple brain regions related to language and memory. Research has indicated that music therapy may be an effective non-pharmacological means of addressing cognitive decline in dementia patients by enhancing cognitive abilities like verbal fluency, attention, and memory. Loved ones and home care can help maintain cognitive abilities and promote cognitive vitality in their loved ones by utilizing rhythm and melody.
Music: Building Relationships and Communication
As Alzheimer’s disease worsens, communication can frequently become difficult as seniors lose their ability to express meaning, and comprehension fades. However, caregivers can use music as a tool for connection, expressing love, consolation, and empathy to seniors.
Music: Providing Support to Caregivers
Music offers a beacon of light to caregivers as well, helping them feel refreshed while providing Alzheimer’s care. Despite the challenges that may occur when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, caregivers find happiness and satisfaction when they participate in musical activities with them. Furthermore, seeing how music improves the quality of life for their loved ones gives them a renewed sense of purpose and a reminder of the significant influence they have on improving the quality of life for those they care for.
As loved ones and home care navigate the challenges of dementia, its important to focus on ideas that can provide the best possible care, which might include incorporating music into seniors’ routines. By embracing music as an essential part of Alzheimer’s care, the support team can foster a culture of compassion, creativity, and connection, as well as improve the quality of life for seniors living with the disease.
Sources:
https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/art-music
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023855/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7839006/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/alzheimers-disease/the-power-of-music-therapy-for-alzheimers
The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable Alzheimer’s care in Hoschton, GA, and the surrounding areas. Call (770) 965-4004 for more information.
We provide elder care in Braselton, Buford, Dacula, Duluth, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Lawrenceville, Oakwood, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Barrow County, Forsyth County, Gwinnett County, Hall County, Jackson County, North Fulton County.
Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”
Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”
You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).
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