Music can be
a powerful tool. When you look back on important events in your life, or
favorite times, how often can you connect them to a song? When we hear certain
music, we are usually reminded of memories or emotions, both positive and
negative. For those with Alzheimer’s, music can have many different effects on
their quality of life.
Music evokes memories and can get your loved one talking
and engaged. A song might remind them of a story from their past that they want
to share. It can boost their mood and bring a smile to their face to be able to
sing a familiar tune. Try to think of songs that they can connect to. It could
be their wedding song, tracks from a favorite movie, a tune they sang as you
were growing up, or simply something that was popular in their young adult
years.
Keep track
of the songs that they seem to enjoy the most as well as those that seem to
evoke negative responses. This can help you to create a more meaningful
selection and know what songs to avoid. Focus on those songs that elicit a
positive response and make your loved one happy.
Music can be soothing and calming when your aging parent becomes agitated. It is not unusual for those with
Alzheimer’s to have periods of frustration, anger, or confusion. Playing music
that has a gentle tone and creates a more peaceful and serene environment can
help your loved one to relax. It can distract them from whatever was upsetting
them and turn their focus to something more calming. On the other hand, if they
are feeling depressed or lonely, you can use more upbeat tunes to stimulate
more energy and a brighter mood.
Music can promote physical activity as your loved one claps or dances to
the beat. It does not take much cognitive work to be able to move to the
rhythm. Sometimes it seems like an automatic reaction. Even if your aging
parent is not in a lucid state, music can still have the power to get through
to them. Moving around can also create a more positive
response to the music as they become involved and enjoy themselves.
Try
different songs and see how your senior responds. You could also ask them for
input into music that they enjoy. Spend time together reminiscing and relaxing
to songs old and new. If your aging parent lives alone, music can be great way
to reduce boredom and enhance their mood. An in-home caregiver can help them
turn on a radio, CD player, or other electronic device and get them moving.
They can also be a positive source of companionship when your loved one wants
to share memories and stories.
Always Best
Care of Asheville-Hendersonville keeps your loved one’s best interests in mind
and supports them in living a higher quality of life as they age in place. From
helping out around the home to listening to music with your senior and
exchanging conversation, our trained caregivers can provide a wide range of
services to meet your senior’s needs. Contact Always Best Care at (828)
989-7263 or visit us online to get started.
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