Music has often been used to reduce stress, address sundowning issues, and improve mood. Music therapy is a person-centered therapy that utilizes a credentialed trained professional to achieve individualized client goals. Some of the benefits of music therapy include:
- Improved quality of life
- Improved memory
- Reduced agitation and anxiety
- Reduced risk of depression
- Strengthened immune system
Why is music so powerful?
- Music can be transportive. How many times have we heard a song from high school or college, and it mentally takes us right back to that time in our lives? Music taps into memory and emotions.
- Music engages many different parts of the brain, which is why it is one of the last functions to go. You may have seen videos of those with advanced dementia who lack communication skills, but if they hear a song they love, they will often sing or dance along.
- Music is universal and can be a wonderful way to connect with others.
So how can you incorporate music therapy into your loved one’s routine?
- Create a special playlist for them. Be sure to include songs and artists that are meaningful to them. Just as music can stir up strong positive emotions, be careful to avoid songs that may tap into sad or painful memories. A research study showed that residents who listened to five to ten meaningful songs a day had an 80% reduced risk of depression.
- Allow the individual to explore new instruments. Perhaps they may enjoy tapping on a drum or playing with a recorder, tambourine, or other instrument.
- If they are physically able, allow them to move their body and dance.
- If they are feeling particularly creative, try making up songs.
