This week, the Chicago Tribune published an article highlighting the benefits of music therapy for individuals with dementia.
In the article, McCoppin (2018), not only provided an overview of music’s effectiveness with individuals affected by Alzheimer’s Disease, but also introduced a current study led by neurologist, Dr. Borna Bonakdarpour, which studied the impact of music therapy with nursing home residents affected by various forms of dementia, including its effect on improvements in cognition, conversation and relationships.
With the rise of dementia diagnosed in older adults, this article comes at a critical time where more and more people are seeking out progressive treatment options for their loved ones who have been declining in responsiveness to outside stimulation, orientation to their environment, and connection with close ones.
As a music therapist who regularly works with older adults with dementia, I see the toll that dementia takes on residents. However, I view it as a privilege to facilitate a supportive environment where familiar songs bring a sense of normalcy and social connection to the residents’ day.
With the knowledge base expanding in regards to the benefits of music for older adults, it is also important to know that special consideration and sensitivity must be applied when using music therapeutically. Not all music and music activities are suitable for older adults with dementia, as it is important to take into consideration the following:
- cultural background of clients
- creating a supportive environment to handle sensitive topics of discussion or unexpected emotional reactions that may arise
- the physical, psycho-social, and sensory status of each individual.
Want to learn more? Check out the article for yourself, or take a look at our current collection of resources on music therapy and older adults.
Music Therapy & Dementia: Improving Quality of Life and Inspiring Memory Recall
Music Therapy with Older Adults: What Can Music Therapy Do for My Loved One?
As always, we would love to hear about your own experiences with how music has helped you or your loved one. Comment below to share your story!
References
McCoppin, R. (2018, June 11). Music can call back loved ones lost in Alzheimer’s darkness: ‘so much we can do to improve quality of life’. Chicago Tribune. Retrieved from http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/ct-met-music-therapy-alzheimers-northwestern-20180324-story.html.
