Did you know music can be a powerful tool to support individuals with dementia?
Two new studies have shown that music, used correctly, can help keep dementia at bay. This is encouraging news for both family caregivers and senior living communities looking for ways to enhance care.
Recent research in the UK has highlighted how music therapy can help reduce distress and improve the overall well-being of those with advanced dementia. In fact, more than half of the people living with dementia in the UK are in advanced stages of the condition. Studies suggest that music therapy can bring short-term relief from distress while boosting engagement and connection.
Researchers from the University of South Australia assessed the 24-hour activity patterns of nearly 400 people over age 60 and found that the type of activity individuals engage in matters. Mentally stimulating behaviors, such as reading, listening to music, praying, crafting and playing a musical instrument – as well as social behaviors like chatting with others – are beneficial for memory and thinking abilities, the study noted. More passive activities, like playing video games or watching TV, do not offer the same benefits.
What Makes Music Therapy So Effective?
A UK research team, made up of music therapists, psychologists, and specialists in geriatric psychiatry, reviewed a wealth of studies on music therapy. They worked with researchers and staff with Music for Dementia, UK, an organization that endorses Sage Stream. Their work included analyzing 16 key research articles, alongside systematic reviews and peer-reviewed studies.
What they found was fascinating: music-evoked memories, especially those tied to familiar songs, are recalled faster and tend to be more positive than other types of memories recalled without music. Researchers found that group sessions offered weekly or biweekly can be effective and provide opportunities for social interaction.
Interestingly, songs from a person’s formative years – typically ages 10 to 30 – often have the most impact. That said, preferences can change, so staying open to exploring other music is key. Group music sessions, held weekly or biweekly, have proven particularly effective in creating opportunities for social interaction and connection.
This idea aligns with insights from the Institute for Music and Neurological Function (IMNF). Connie Tomaino, IMNF co-founder with Oliver Sacks, in her book Music Has Power, talks about how to customize playlists using songs pertinent to their life but clearly emphasizes about being open to other songs, songs from before and after their generational sweet spot. That is why adult day centers ask me to perform Tennessee Whiskey!!!
The Role of Family and Care Staff
For music therapy to have the best outcomes, family members and care staff need to be involved. When they participate – whether it’s by helping plan sessions, providing feedback, or simply engaging during the therapy – communication improves, and staff attitudes toward care often shift for the better. That applies to a family caregiver engaging at home in a virtual music program. Don’t just set up the TV and walk away. Help your loved one participate in the program.
This collaborative approach creates intimate and uplifting moments for people with dementia, showcasing their strengths and humanity. It’s a reminder that these individuals are so much more than their diagnosis.
Live Stream Music Impactful
Music therapy is about active engagement, not passive listening. For example, live-streamed concerts where participants can interact with artists and one another have proven much more beneficial than simply watching a recorded performance. That is what obe company called Sage Stream offers. Real-time live concerts in all genres and timeframes of music where interaction, such as taking song requests or celebrating audience birthdays, is encouraged and acknowledged. They have a roster of more than 100 well-known, world-wide artists.
Is it music therapy? Consider this from Connie Tomaino:
“Sage Stream live music concerts help promote social, emotional and cognitive wellness. In-person programs are important but there will still be people who cannot attend. Sage Stream comes to them, removing barriers that would otherwise prevent participation. Here’s the key. Music-based TV or videos can be used therapeutically when there is shared interaction around music in real-time. A smart TV program will not have the intended effect if the TV is simply turned on. Sage Stream’s ability to have artists interact with the audience, taking requests, recognizing birthdays and such, makes it unique. On the viewer’s side, it is essential that a CNA or volunteer in senior living or a family caregiver helping their loved one, help deliver the program – urging clapping, singing and facilitating interaction with the artists.”
The Takeaway for You:
So, what’s the key message? Let’s replace some of those bingo sessions with music therapy! How do you incorporate music into your loved one’s care? Does their care facility use music as a tool for connection? Let’s keep the conversation going – music truly has the power to change lives.
