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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.

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What Does COPD Do To The Body?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects the lung’s airways, making breathing difficult. COPD leads to two other conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis restricts the airways and causes excess mucus buildup. Emphysema is a disease that destroys the lung’s air sacs. People with COPD often have to deal with complications from either one of these diseases.

The importance of exercise

Activity is vital for people with COPD because a lack of physical activity can affect a person’s health and overall quality of life. COPD symptoms can even become worse. To start, COPD patients should enroll in pulmonary rehabilitation. This is a program with a team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, physical therapists, and exercise specialists. These professionals help people with COPD learn special breathing techniques and exercises, and develop treatment plans to make life with COPD easier. Pulmonary rehabilitation begins with an assessment from a therapist to determine different things about the patient, like blood oxygen levels. Programs are conducted at hospitals, outpatient clinics, or the patient’s home.

Stretching for people with COPD

People with COPD will benefit from lots of stretching. Stretching helps with breath control and body flexibility. Patients should start stretching for at least 10-15 minutes every day. Experts also believe that stretching before and after exercise is good for the body. Stretching is something that can be done anywhere at any time of day. Try some stretching exercises to prepare for more intense activities.

Aerobic exercises

Aerobic exercises are great for people with COPD because these activities increase the amount of oxygen in the blood. Cardiovascular exercise also strengthens the heart muscle. Walking is an excellent form of aerobic exercise. Patients can do this for 15-20 minutes a day to get the blood flowing. Another great exercise is cycling. Patients can use a stationary bike or a regular bike. Swimming can also be beneficial. If an outdoor pool isn’t an option, patients can go to a local sports club and use those pool facilities. A good fitness regimen for those with COPD will incorporate aerobic exercises a few times a week.

Try some resistance training

Essentially, resistance training is weight lifting. However, people do not need to start with a heavy load. Lightweight dumbbells or exercise bands work just as well. Resistance training can be done multiple times throughout the week.

Taking the next step

Anyone interested in pulmonary rehabilitation, exercises, or more information about COPD should consult a doctor, physical therapist, or a respiratory therapist. These healthcare professionals are a wealth of knowledge and resources for leading a healthy life with COPD.