As humans, music can have an incredible impact on us throughout our lives. We often associate songs and singers with key memories, people and moments from our past. For people living with dementia, this connection can be particularly powerful. Listening to familiar music or music linked to key memories offers a range of benefits, including enhanced memory and reduced anxiety.
At Crouched Friars, we understand the impact music can have on our residents’ cognitive and emotional wellbeing. We host a variety of musical events throughout the year, helping residents access these cherished memories and emotions.
Here are some of the benefits of music for people living with dementia:
Unlocking Memories & Nostalgia
Music has a remarkable ability to unlock memories. For individuals living with dementia, the ability to recall songs and musical experiences linked to pivotal memories often remains, even when other cognitive functions have declined.
Familiar songs can transport people living with dementia back to specific, positive moments in their lives, sparking joy, comfort, and a sense of connection to the past.
Reducing Anxiety and Agitation
Music can also help reduce anxiety and agitation, which are common challenges for people living with dementia.
Soothing and familiar melodies can help to lift spirits and lessen feelings of sadness or isolation, resulting in an improved overall sense of wellbeing.
Encouraging Social Interaction
Music can be a wonderful way for people to share experiences, it can encourage social interaction and build connections between those living with dementia, their families and caregivers.
At Crouched Friars, singing, dancing or simply listening to music together helps to create a sense of community and belonging for our residents living with dementia.
Cognitive Stimulation
Music is a great source of sensory stimulation, engaging multiple parts of the brain simultaneously, including those responsible for memory, emotion and motor skills.
This helps those living with dementia to maintain cognitive function, keeping their brains engaged and active.
Encourages Exercise
Music can make exercise enjoyable and accessible for people living with dementia.
At Crouched Friars, our residents benefit from relaxed dancing sessions set to upbeat music, which promotes positive movement and allows residents of all abilities to join in.
Incorporating music into the life of someone living with dementia
Incorporating music into daily life can be as simple as playing favourite songs, attending live music performances or even singing together.
The key is to create a positive and supportive environment where music can be a positive entity, enriching the lives and memories of those living with dementia.
Music can be so much more than entertainment; it can be a powerful tool for connection, comfort and well-being.
If you’d like to learn more about Crouched Friars Care Home in Colchester, Essex, please call us at 01206 572647 to book a viewing.