Music is a powerful tool that influences people across the world in many ways. It can bring you back to younger days or evoke thoughts of friends or loved ones. It is a powerful art form where melodies and rhythms can resonate on profound levels. Music operates on a subconscious level, gently stroking our emotions as we listen. Certain tunes and beats can have an undeniable influence on our feelings and music therapy can be used to help us connect with our emotions and engage with the world around us. This is why music therapy can be particularly beneficial for older adults living with dementia.

How does music therapy help dementia?

The magic of music lies in the way it boosts our brain’s neuroplasticity, which is what allows the brain to change and grow. The benefits of music therapy and dementia are well documented. Research has shown that music is processed in several areas of the brain. By using different pathways to transfer and store information, the memories music conjures are vivid and clear. This positive experience can help ease worry, calm anxiety and even improve communication.

How does music influence memory?

Memory is like a file cabinet where information is organized and stored for later reference or use. That information includes sights, sounds, tastes and smells. Those senses play a significant role in our ability to recall specific memories. Music stimulates the brain’s reward system, releasing healthy doses of “feel-good” chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin. This can make the retrieval of older memories an easier task for someone with dementia by stimulating the mind in ways that improve cognitive function, including memory recall. Consistent stimulation like this means that the benefits can extend beyond the confines of treatment plans and become ingrained in daily life.

How is music therapy treatment used for dementia?

Music therapy is about jumpstarting the brain. For example, rousing music that features fast-paced, immersive beats engages the mind in a way that increases awareness. Not everyone responds to music the exact same way, and there are different ways to kick the mind into high gear. Some are participatory while others are passive. The best path is to find what works best for each individual. Some examples include:

• Group singing. Singing or Vocal Intonation Therapy (VIT) uses the power of language and speech to foster orientation. It grounds the participant and gives them a sense of stability in a world that can often feel off-kilter. In addition, group singing challenges the mind to recall words, phrases and rhythms in a way that also encourages community and collaboration.
• Ensemble instrumentation. Playing a musical instrument can release stress, and each instrument can have its own unique additional benefits. Some are soothing, while others energize the musician. Drumming, in particular, can help patients release anger and frustration in a way that is healthy and safe for others.
• Live musical performances. Research shows that musical activities of all varieties (including listening) can influence senior adults and their perceptions about the quality of their lives. Simply sitting back and listening to music engages the brain and can reduce anxiety, blood pressure and pain. It may also improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness and memory.

Some of the most effective therapies are simple to accomplish. Music therapy has proven to be and effective and pleasant experience for those in the memory care community.