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The Challenges That Come With An Aging Brain
Active listening means to fully process a message. But as the body ages, the brain doesn’t process information as quickly as people may be used to. Active listening can be a challenge for people suffering from dementia, people with cognitive impairments, or people who are simply getting older. However, music therapy can offer many mental benefits for seniors and improve active listening abilities.
Can’t remember something? Try music
Anecdotally, many people can attest to the power of music on memory. In long-term care facilities or nursing homes, those with memory impairment often become uncharacteristically energetic when music starts playing. Music is an integral part of alternative therapies for seniors, especially for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
One study found that listening to music can actually improve memory. Music can force a listener into remembering a memory that was previously thought to be lost. People’s minds respond better to familiar sounds or sounds that have been heard before. Because of this, seniors often experience a recovery of memories when hearing familiar pieces of music.
Music is good for the heart and the soul
Actively participating in music has been linked to many physical health benefits for seniors. Active listening to music has been linked to stroke recovery, lowering of blood pressure, and improved heart health and immune systems.
Additionally, music can help improve a person’s mood. A more positive outlook is also directly linked to improved physical health. Good mental health puts people at lower risk of heart disease, digestive disorders, sleep disorders, and other health problems.
Music is one of the last cognitive functions
For patients with Alzheimer’s disease, music can be a game changer. In the progression of Alzheimer’s, musical ability and appreciation are two of the last remaining functions. For many Alzheimer’s patients, music reaches past the disease and brings out personality and emotion.
Music can be used as a daily tool to help seniors improve memory and cognitive function. And music isn’t just for listening. Singing along to music engages both halves of the brain, which means that patients who sing along are using more of the brain and helping to build more brain strength.
