If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s, you might think there is no way he can improve. That’s actually not true. According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, music can improve outcomes in patients, even those who are in the late stages of Alzheimer’s. This is great news for anyone who has a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer’s. It’s also great news for compassionate care providers, since it gives them another opportunity to enrich and improve lives.
Patients Recall Memories with Music
People associate music with various emotions and events. When they hear a song that they have associated with something else, they will often remember that event, even if they have Alzheimer’s. An elder care giver is trained to gauge a person’s response to certain songs. Then he can determine which songs evoke positive memories and which ones evoke sad or negative ones. This makes it easier for the compassionate care provider to choose the right playlist.
In addition, you can give a song list to your Alzheimer’s specialist in Phoenix. That way, your loved one can listen to music from his wedding and other happy events.
It Helps with Expression
People with Alzheimer’s often feel trapped inside of their bodies, unable to express themselves. This can make them feel frustrated and disconnected. However, they regain their ability to express themselves through dance. They are able to move their bodies in an expressive way, and it often helps them take down boundaries between themselves and family members. This can lead to hugging and other forms of expression that allows them to feel closer to their loved ones. A Phoenix Alzheimer’s specialist can guide you along the way to help you find ways to connect with your loved one through dance.
Music Channels Energy
People who lose the ability to communicate can become very agitated. You can redirect their attention to music, which will calm them down and make them feel better. This can help you avoid the outbursts that Alzheimer’s patients sometimes have. If you are not sure how to do this, watch your elder care giver in action. Skilled compassionate care providers know exactly how to use music to diffuse bad situations.
If you already have an elder care giver, talk to him about including dance and music as part of the treatment plan. If you don’t have one yet, seek out a Phoenix Alzheimer’s specialist. Your specialist can get you on the right track to using music to help improve your loved one’s life.
