Engaging at Home™

The magical impact of music

Music helps cognitive skils

Music is an inherent part of every culture, as recent research from Harvard University indicates. It also resonates with those with cognitive impairment and can be an engaging and easy way to connect with others through shared enjoyment.

 

According to an article in Today’s Geriatric Medicine, listening to music summons emotions, giving a person a sense of self even if they’re not sure why. Music also triggers memories — an important aspect of caring for loved ones with dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association page on Art and Music states, “Even in the late stages of Alzheimer's, a person may be able to tap a beat or sing lyrics to a song from childhood.”

 

In addition, music often improves mood, provides the opportunity to interact socially, decreases pain and anxiety, and much more. According to an Aging Care article, brain scans show stimulation in the medial prefrontal cortex, which may help patients recognize loved ones they associate with a song, among other benefits.

 

The article inToday’s Geriatric Medicine also outlines how music can help people communicate, ease their sense of isolation, and employ cognitive skills, which may slow the progression of impairment. Music often leads people to clap, sing, and dance, which benefits people physically.

 

Today’s extensive selections of digital music make it possible to find music for every individual. Create a personal playlist and use music when transitioning from one activity to the next. People living with dementia often resist leaving the house or taking a shower. A familiar and robust song can soothe a challenging situation.

 

At Engaging at Home, our entire model is built on triggering feelings of self-worth, happiness, and positive memories thanks to engagement. We offer creative care options to help home care partners get toes tapping and tunes belting, thanks to specially created activities and videos. Even though we may not understand all the science behind it, most observers agree that music can be an important element in cognitive care.

 

Engaging at Home™ blends lifelong learning programs with creative and expressive activities to create experiences that encourage recall and curiosity. Laughter is an integral part of this creative process and helps people thrive. Reach us via email or by phone at (602) 418-5196.

 

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