Memories of music are retained longer in Alzheimer’s disease

Musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s disease, allowing an avenue to connect with the patient. — TNS

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder that causes brain cells to waste away and die.

It is the most common cause of dementia, which is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily function.

Memory loss is the key symptom of Alzheimer’s disease.

An early sign of the disease is difficulty remembering recent events or conversations.

As the disease progresses, memory impairment persists and worsens, affecting the ability to function at work or at home.

Musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s disease though.

This is because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.

Research suggests that listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioural benefits for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.

Music can also benefit caregivers by reducing anxiety and distress, lightening the mood, and providing a way to connect with loved ones who have Alzheimer’s disease, especially those who have difficulty communicating.

If you’d like to use music to help a loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease, consider these tips:

> Think about your loved one’s preferences

What kind of music does your loved one enjoy?

What music evokes memories of happy times in his or her life?

Involve family and friends by asking them to suggest songs or make playlists.

> Set the mood

To calm your loved one during mealtime or a morning hygiene routine, play music or sing a song that’s soothing.

When you’d like to boost your loved one’s mood, use more upbeat or faster-paced music.

> Avoid overstimulation

When playing music, eliminate competing noises.

Turn off the TV. Shut the door.

Set the volume based on your loved one’s hearing ability.

Choose a source of music that doesn’t have interruptions from commercials, which can cause confusion in the Alzheimer’s patient.

> Encourage movement

Help your loved one to clap along or tap his or her feet to the beat.

If possible, consider dancing with your loved one.

> Sing along

Singing along to music together with your loved one can boost the mood and enhance your relationship.

Some early studies suggest musical memory functions differently than other types of memory, and singing can help stimulate unique memories.

> Pay attention to your loved one’s response

If your loved one seems to enjoy particular songs, play them often.

If your loved one reacts negatively to a particular song or type of music, choose something else. – By Joel Streed/Mayo Clinic News Network/Tribune News Service