People light up when they hear music, and it’s not just the moving lyrics or catchy beat; it’s the way it stirs up our minds.
“Music and memory go so hand in hand, and it’s beautiful to see my mom come back to the present because she can connect to the music she knew so well.”
-Keely, daughter of Wesley Woods resident
The Science That Links Music and Memory
As shown in a 2023 study, our brains react to music in a unique way that not even conversation and language can influence. Music engages with multiple parts of the brain that touch on emotions, memory, and movement, including the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. By involving both the logical left side of the brain and the creative right side of the brain, music is able to:
- Create associations
- Enhance recall
- Improve focus
- Reinforce learning and retention
- Strengthen neural connections
Music as Therapy
Music can be utilized in a variety of therapeutic ways that support a better quality of life:
- Nostalgic experiences that help us connect with others and get through difficult or transitional periods
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy through engaging in musical activities that support auditory feedback, breathing, fine motor control, finger dexterity, hand coordination, mouth and voice control, posture, and tactile feedback
- Sensory experiences that can regulate anxiety, stress, and overall mood
Music and Dementia
Patients with Alzheimer’s or dementia greatly benefit from engaging with music or a music therapy program:
- Boost in happiness and calm energy
- Fostered social connections with friends, family, and caregivers
- Encouraged verbal responses that support communication skills
- Enhanced cognitive function, including concentration and the ability to form new memories
- Improved functional independence with activities of daily living (ADLs)
Enhance Your Life With Music
Music can help establish a healthy daily routine by using familiar sounds to signal the next item on the checklist. Here are some tips to integrate music and sounds in a more intentional way when creating playlists for your goals:
- Ambient, electronic, or white noise to create a calm, steady rhythm for work
- Binaural beats for a deep focus or relaxed meditative state, especially before sleeping, which allows the brain to process and consolidate information learned throughout the day
- Classical, instrumental, and jazz music to improve accuracy, creativity, and speed when completing tasks
- Nature sounds to reduce stress and create a sense of calm
Discover the path to a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle with our free ebook, The Way of Wellness!
At Life Enriching Communities (LEC), we’re committed to ensuring patrons feel well-equipped to plan their future and age how they wish. Explore more resources on senior living or contact us today to learn more about our legacy of services and programs that bring meaning and purpose to every stage of life.