How Music Promotes Healthy Aging in Seniors with Dementia

The risk of developing dementia increases with age and other factors. Some early signs include problems with memory and concentration. It can also make routine tasks more difficult. However, there are things you can do to promote healthy aging in seniors with dementia.

Music can be a vital component in helping dementia patients. It isn’t just a form of self-expression. Music can do a lot to stimulate the mind.

This post will cover some of the benefits of music for dementia patients.

The Ways That Music Helps with Healthy Aging in Seniors

It is often hard for seniors with dementia to communicate. It is one of the reasons people with dementia may isolate themselves. However, music can help them connect with others.

Registered therapists use Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) in clinical settings, particularly neurorehabilitation. On the other hand, qualified staff members in senior care centers can integrate music into daily activities. This treatment plan promotes healthy aging by:

• Stimulating the brain to remember
• Helping seniors to express themselves
• Fostering social interaction
• Encouraging communication
• Promoting physical activity
• Relieving stress

According to studies, the brain instinctively predicts familiar tunes. This process begins in the auditory cortex, which receives sound, followed by the neurotransmitters signaling dopamine release. The auditory system also communicates with the medial prefrontal cortex, which stimulates memories.

How to Use Music to Help Seniors with Dementia

Music therapy can be active, which involves physical stimulation through playing musical instruments or dancing. It can also be receptive, which refers to mindful listening to live or recorded music.

Many studies have looked into the positive effects of “musical medicine” on healthy aging. Even the simple humming of a tune minimizes distress among patients with advanced dementia. As a result, more senior care centers are implementing various forms of music therapy.

The following activities can help alleviate the symptoms of memory disorders:

• Watching a live performance or a musical
• Learning to play a musical instrument
• Watching a video or photo montage with song clips
• Joining or forming a singing group
• Listening to songs
• Meditating with ambient sounds

Familiarity with the music encourages more engagement, such as dancing and singing. That means song selection can be a vital part of music therapy for older adults with dementia.

Using music to promote healthy aging doesn’t have to take place in formal settings, such as clinics and hospitals. Many care homes organize music-based activities for residents.

At Dream Catcher, we understand the value of engagement and social activity. That’s why we promote an active and enjoyable life among residents. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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