Music therapy can be a great benefit for people with dementia. It improves communication, mood, and social engagement. It also decreases the effects of neuropsychiatric symptoms. The benefits of music therapy are not limited to dementia patients but can benefit anyone. Music can be played throughout the day to increase energy levels and help people relax.
Music therapy improves social engagement
A new study has found that music therapy can help seniors with dementia live more socially. The study, published in the journal Alzheimer’s Disease and Associated Disorders, involved people with dementia and their caretakers. The research was unique in that it looked at the role of music as a communication tool. Previous studies had only focused on the patient. The researchers also considered the caretakers’ needs and concerns.
The research team observed two groups of individuals for three months. One group received music therapy sessions, while the other received a nature-video intervention. The researchers noted that participants in the music therapy group showed increased social engagement, decreased agitation, and a boost in mood. This effect was not seen in the control group. The positive effects of music therapy were also observed outside of the therapy sessions. In addition, the participant’s family members noted that the music sessions enhanced their quality of life.
It improves communication
Research shows that music therapy for dementia patients can improve their mood and communication and reduce the need for psychiatric drugs. It can also help reduce social isolation. Individuals with dementia often feel emotionally isolated because they cannot hold meaningful conversations. The presence of music can help them perk up and even break into song or dance.
Music activities can help people with dementia open up about their past experiences and memories. Music can also help caregivers and patients connect better in nonverbal and verbal ways. It can be used in formal therapy, for relaxation, or to help manage difficult behaviors. Some music therapists have been trained specifically to work with individuals with dementia.
It improves mood
Research has shown that music can improve the mood and cognitive function of those with dementia. It can help people deal with stress and anxiety and is effective for patients who cannot communicate effectively. It can improve mood and behavior in dementia patients and has positive effects that can last for hours or days. The benefits of music therapy are not just limited to those suffering from dementia; it can also help people with Alzheimer’s disease manage their condition better.
Although no conclusive research supports music therapy for dementia, some studies have suggested that dementia patients’ moods can improve with music therapy. For example, one study suggests that dementia patients who listen to music can decrease their stress, anxiety, and depression levels. It has also been recommended that music therapy can improve cognitive function.