When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, it can be emotionally and mentally taxing on the entire family. Fortunately, there are ways to help your senior manage the symptoms associated with the occasionally tricky journey of living with dementia. Music therapy helpsimprove cognitive function, mood, and behavior in seniors dealing with dementia. This, in a way, provides hope for their loved ones.
Learn more about this unique therapy and how it could help your senior loved one.
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a form of intervention that strategically uses musical activities such as singing, listening to music, playing instruments, and discussing musical experiences. These activities can help achieve therapeutic objectives, like speech-language, physical fitness, and psychological well-being. Music therapy can be tailored for individual seniors or applied to groups, too.
How Can Music Therapy Help Seniors With Dementia?
Music therapy can be a powerful tool to help seniors with dementia. Here are some of its benefits:
- Improving cognitive function: Music therapy can help stimulate the brain and improve cognitive function in seniors. Listening to familiar songs can help trigger memories and enhance overall cognitive abilities.
- Reducing agitation and anxiety: Seniors with dementia may become agitated or anxious, but music therapy can help calm them down. Playing soothing music can have a calming effect on seniors and reduce their feelings of agitation.
- Enhancing socialization: Music therapy can also help seniors feel more socially engaged. Participating in music therapy sessions can provide opportunities for socialization and interaction with others.
- Increasing mobility and coordination: Music therapy can also help seniors improve their mobility and coordination. The movement to music can help with balance, gait, as well as overall physical functioning.
- Improving mood and emotional well-being: Music therapy can enhance the mood and emotional well-being of seniors with dementia. Listening to or participating in music can release endorphins and improve happiness and contentment.
- Improving the quality of life: Music therapy can also help improve the quality of life of seniors. It can provide a sense of joy and comfort and help seniors connect with their memories and emotions.
How to Find Music Therapy for Seniors
Music therapy professionals can design a program for seniors living with dementia. There may be therapists offering one-on-one or group therapy sessions using this technique. You can ask your senior loved one's healthcare provider or talk to other caregivers about recommendations. You can also do a quick online search for local practitioners in your area.
In fact, music therapy may be covered under some insurance plans or state-funded support systems. Some practitioners may offer music therapy sessions on a sliding scale, too.
Looking for More Support for Seniors at Home?
When seeking ways to benefit seniors with dementia, music therapy can be a valuable addition to their lives. We've seen what great support can do to help improve the quality of life for seniors with dementia.
Senior Helpers LaGrange works with seniors and their families daily in the LaGrange, Columbus, West Point, and Pine Mountain areas. If you want more information about our in-home care services for seniors, please get in touch with us today!