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Can Music Therapy Benefit Seniors With Alzheimer’s?

December 16, 2021 0 Comment Category: Foothill Heights

The American Music Therapy Association believes that together with the efforts of a professional who holds a certificate of completion of an approved music therapy program, and evidence-based music interventions, individualized therapeutic goals can be easily accomplished. Music therapy can be beneficial for seniors living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia variants. Music can have many therapeutic benefits on seniors and these are discussed below.

Music Improves Mood And The Immune System 

Music can improve the mood of the listener instantly. You might have experienced the happiness that comes when your favorite music is being played. Seniors living with dementia can also experience the same feelings when they listen to music. Music can improve their mood offering relief from depression and anxiety that are part of the condition. Moreover, singing along to songs can improve lung capacity and also offer a boost of oxygen to the brain, thereby improving the immune response of the person.

Music Encourages Movement 

Increased healthy movement is one of the most important benefits of music therapy. As per the experts in music therapy for senior care, it can be a good way to ensure purposeful movements like swaying, dancing, or clapping, which can be much beneficial to seniors suffering from dementia disorders. These movements can help elderly adults increase their strength, endurance, and balance, leading to a reduction in fall risks and improved motor skills.

Music Is Accessible 

Even without being a music therapist, you can still make use of music while interacting with seniors living with dementia. You may use music throughout your day together, whether by humming a favorite hymn that can relax your senior loved one or by playing a favorite playlist that can energize your senior loved one in the morning.

Music Can Be Good For Communication 

If you have cared for a senior loved one with dementia, you will know that verbal communication might not always be an effective way of communication. Instead, nonverbal communication methods will be more effective in offering the person a comfortable and pleasant interaction. Many caregivers claim that music is a very effective addition to dementia communication, that can offer a novel way to improve positive experiences and social interaction.

Music is a great tool that can help refine the standard of living of people living with dementia. It can enhance both physical and emotional well-being while ensuring a new way for elderly adults to interact with the world around them.