Music & Dementia
We’re all innately musical beings;
We have our own personal rhythms of heartbeat and breathing rate;
We all have the unique timbre of our voice. When we engage in music making, neurons fire in every area of the brain that scientists are able to map, including those linked to our emotions, communication and coordination.
This is what makes music such a brilliant tool to use when supporting people with dementia; music can still connect for people where language and words have been lost.
Through shared music, people with dementia can engage together
In the present moment, expressing emotions and feelings, bringing back memories and re-affirming a sense of identity. If you’ve ever sung in a choir, or played in a band, you’ll know what a bonding experience that is. By sharing music together, feelings of isolation or loneliness dissipate; connections are made, relationships nurtured, and a new way of communicating develops.
Many thanks to Mindsong who were singing and entertaining. As usual they did so with care, compassion and an understanding of our dementia residents’ needs. It’s always a full house when Mindsong are here.