By: Emily and Scott Sutherland
For decades now, the scientific and medical communities have conducted fascinating studies on the powerful connection between music and the human brain. And, while much of human consciousness remains a mystery, these studies repeatedly conclude that our bodies seem hard-wired to connect music with long-term memory.
In her book, The Power of Music, Elena Mannes tracked individuals’ relationship with music throughout their life span and found an undeniable correlation between the effect of certain musical chords and intervals with brain development and function. Hearing is the first of the five senses to develop while a baby is still growing in the womb and is typically the last to cease during an individual’s final breaths, suggesting that hearing takes on a significant role in every stage of life.
We also know that music stimulates activity in more parts of the brain than any other human function. From this discovery, we are learning how music can tap into the long-term memories of people whose short-term memories are less active or inaccessible, such as individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and severe dementia. Numerous case studies offered further evidence suggesting that music seems to wake up memories and emotions in ways nothing else can.
Incorporating music into the care plan for people facing short-term memory deficits is believed to create a powerful emotional connection to experiences from the happiest parts of their lives. Often care partners report seeing their loved one “light up” with joy in response to certain songs. Many observed their loved one being able to sing along, even remembering every word, or being able to play the song on an instrument they hadn’t played in years.
Here are some ways you might consider utilizing the power of music to improve the lives of someone living with Alzheimer’s:
- Find music that connects with significant life events or eras of the person’s life before Alzheimer’s.Consider the concerts they attended, favorite artists from their youth, or even songs played at their wedding or other special life events. If you aren’t sure, perhaps asking friends or family members could offer some insight, or perhaps researching artists or composers that were popular during significant stages of the person’s life might help you find songs they will enjoy.
- Experiment with new music that might have a calming effect on the individual.
Even music that was not part of the person’s early memories may evoke a positive response, as music can, by its very nature, tend to create feelings of well-being, calm, and even have a healing effect on the nervous system. - Decide on the time of day when certain music might be most helpful.
For many people with Alzheimer’s, playing classical music or old hymns at bedtime can bring much-needed comfort that helps individuals with sleep challenges. For others, listening to upbeat favorites might lift spirits in the morning to get the day started on a positive note. Finding the right music for the right time of day might take some experimentation but may offer a powerful remedy to help a person with memory issues through otherwise difficult periods of time. - Carefully pay attention to the person’s reactions.
When you first try playing music for the individual, watch their reactions closely. Notice any body language or attempts to communicate how the music makes them feel. If you notice any agitation or negative response, be ready to stop the music quickly, as it may be triggering unpleasant memories. Keep track of songs, artists, or genres that elicit a positive response and, if necessary, make a list of songs to avoid if the person does not respond positively to certain music. - Keep trying.
Incorporating music into your care plan may take a bit of trial and error. Still, you will be glad you persisted when you observe just how powerfully music can help a person with Alzheimer’s tap into parts of their memory that are alive and well, even if only for a few moments.
As with all Alzheimer’s treatments, results and reactions can vary widely from person to person, but a growing body of research suggests that music can be a safe and highly effective elixir for the symptoms that often accompany this disease, including anxiety, confusion, fear, and isolation.
As the Gayle Wells Foundation continues to connect with individuals and families affected by early onset Alzheimer’s disease, we invite you to share your experiences with music as part of your care plan so we can continue to learn from one another.
Please feel free to connect with us on the Gayle Wells Foundation Facebook page and/or email us here to share what you have learned about the use of music in your journey as a care partner.