Music and Memory
 Music Therapy

           Music Therapy and Dementia Care​

What is Music Therapy?
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Music therapy is the evidence-based used of music interventions to work on non-musical goal areas by a credentialed professional. Music therapy interventions can be designed to work on promoting wellness, manage stress, alleviate pain, enhance memory, improve communication, and provide unique opportunities for interactions.  Group music therapy is available for nursing home and assisted living communities.  Music therapy can help those with cognitive challenges by allowing them to access memories and skills that were once lost.  In group music therapy, participates will be able to engage in group singing, reminiscence, relaxation, drum circles, dance, and more. 

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    Making a Difference for Older Adults

Music provides a sense of security and can provoke a response when they are resistive to other treatment approaches, Music provides sensory stimulation that provokes response due to its familiarity, predictability, and feelings of security.

​Group music therapy will very depending on the group members and their preference for that day.  When providing music therapy in a nursing home songs from their twenties will be utilized to help engage and draw out their memories.  

Participants will have the opportunity to sing along with the top hits of their decades which will help to maintain communication skills.  

Research has shown that music is a form of sensory stimulation, which provokes responses due to the familiarity, predictability, and feelings of security associated with it.

               Music and Dementia
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Our music therapy provides opportunities for:

-Memory recall which contributes to reminiscence
-Positive changes in mood and emotional states
-Sense of control through successful experiences
-Awareness of self and environment
​-Anxiety and stress reduction for older adult and caregiver
​-Structure which promotes rhythmic and continuous movement or vocal fluency as an  adjunct to physical rehabilitation

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                                                            Music and Memory
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                                                                                          Group Music Therapy

Music interventions may include:
·       Singing
·       Improvisation
·       Accompany or conduct group music
·       Provide instrument instructions
·       Direct music and movement activities
·       Structured music listening

Music Therapy Provides Opportunity for:     
•        Memory recall
•        Positive changes in mood and emotional status
•        Awareness of self and environment
•        Anxiety and stress reduction
•        Nonpharmacological management of pain and discomfort
•        Stimulation which provokes interest
•        Rhythmic structure and continuous movement or vocal fluency as an adjunct to physical rehabilitation
*        Emotional intimacy when spouses and families share creative music experiences


​This program is the most effective with groups 8-10 in size.  

​Sessions are one hour a week or once a month.

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