How music can support memory and wellbeing
Discover how the power of music can significantly enhance memory and overall wellbeing for the elderly. Learn from the experience of Home Instead Hinckley and Burbage and get
Music is often called the universal language, a transformative medium that transcends age, culture, and physical limitations. At Home Instead Hinckley and Burbage, we’ve seen the remarkable impact music can have on our clients, especially when it comes to enhancing memory and improving general wellbeing.
The Connection Between Music and Memory
Music has a unique capability to tap into our deepest memories, offering a wealth of benefits, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Whether it’s a classic tune from their youth or a familiar melody, music can serve as a gateway to the past, igniting a series of memories and emotions that are otherwise hard to access.
In our experience, the inclusion of music in our care plans often results in a noticeable improvement in memory recall for our clients. One case that comes to mind involves a gentleman in his late 80s who was living with advanced Alzheimer’s. Upon playing some tunes from his youth, we saw a significant uplift in his mood and cognitive engagement. Not only did he remember the lyrics, but he also shared stories and experiences related to the times when he first heard those songs, which was a joyful experience for him and his family.
Music as Emotional Support
Music has the capacity to elevate mood, relieve stress, and even combat anxiety. Listening to or even playing a musical instrument can offer emotional support in ways that conventional treatment sometimes can’t. Care Professionals at Home Instead Hinckley often include this approach in personalised care plans to ensure that our clients are emotionally well-supported. For example, calming classical music can be used to alleviate anxiety during personal care, while an upbeat playlist can make physical exercise sessions more enjoyable.
Social Benefits of Music
Music isn’t just about individual experience; it’s also a fantastic medium for social interaction. At Home Instead Hinckley and Burbage, we’ve organised group musical sessions that not only lighten the atmosphere but also encourage community and connection among our clients. These gatherings, whether they involve sing-alongs or listening sessions, offer opportunities for socialisation that significantly contribute to a person’s overall sense of wellbeing.
Families we support have found that these group sessions are especially beneficial for their loved ones who may be socially isolated. Engaging in a shared musical experience helps in creating bonds and opens up avenues for meaningful conversations.
Practical Tips to Incorporate Music
- Identify Favourite Genres and Artists: Know what kind of music your loved one enjoys. Create playlists that resonate with them.
- Safe and Comfortable Setup: Make sure the audio equipment is user-friendly and the volume is set at a comfortable level.
- Routine Inclusion: Try to include music in daily activities. For example, play soft background music during meals or more upbeat tunes during exercise time.
- Family Participation: When possible, involve other family members in musical activities. It’s an excellent way for everyone to bond and share experiences.
The benefits of music go beyond mere entertainment. As we’ve seen in our experience at Home Instead Hinckley and Burbage, it can be a powerful aid for enhancing memory, providing emotional support, and encouraging social interaction among the elderly. Therefore, we highly recommend including it as part of a holistic care plan.
Are you interested in learning more about how we incorporate music into our personalised care plans? Contact our team at Home Instead Hinckley and Burbage today to find out how we can provide well-rounded support for your loved ones, enriching their lives through the power of music.
