Jeannette tested for you … music to improve memory
For a while now I’ve created a ritual every evening: I listen to music and I sing for an hour, that’s my little treat of the day …
You’re wondering why I’m telling you this and you will surely think that it has nothing on you!
But you can be suprised and get excited about it, because I read recently several articles indicating that music could help maintain memory!
Scientific studies
Let me explain this to you :
A recent Finnish study shows the big benefits coming from singing and listening to music on patients affected by Alzheimer’s disease, helping them to maintain their memory. Choral activities and listening to songs seems to be a good way to stimulate the memory of those with Alzheimer’s. University of Helsinki researchers have in fact just finished a study they worked on for months and which they publish in a book, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.
According to them, the relationship that patients should have with music depends on their age.
Patients under 80 years, with early forms of Alzheimer’s should successfully stimulate their memory by singing. Patients with more advanced stages of the disease should have benefits from more passive forms, namely listening to music.
Perhaps you’ve seen a powerful documentary, Alive inside, presented during the independent film festival in Sundance in the United States. This documentary follows the efforts of Dan Cohen, founder of the Music and Memory Association, to demonstrate the benefits of music on Alzheimer’s patients.
The experiment is conducted in US nursing homes: on camera, patients fitted with helmets, start humming, smiling, talking … hearing the songs they loved in their youth.
How to train
To train yourself you can try the game “Musical Ear” in the Dynseo apps, Scarlett and Clint. In this game you must find the instruments that is played, sounds of animals, or sounds of everyday life.
In addition to the fun, this game allows me to work several layers of memory, auditory memory, episodic and semantic memory!
Music on stroke
But it does not stop there, this musical treatment also helps patients that have suffered a stroke. Indeed, this article describes a German neurologist who rehabilitated motor skills of patients hit by a stroke or head injuries by making them learn the piano. And in the treatment of muscle rigidity and balance disorders of Parkinson’s disease, the rhythm is used.
That reminds me, I just added an extra page on my blog, this page will be dedicated entirely to information on strokes, because I notice that many of you are in this situation and suffer memory impairment following strokes.
So feel free to listen to music, sing as loud as you want because this can only be beneficial for memory and frankly it feels good!
The Role of Music Therapy in Rehabilitation
Music therapy has emerged as a powerful tool in rehabilitation, particularly for individuals recovering from neurological conditions. This therapeutic approach utilizes music to facilitate cognitive, emotional, and social needs of patients. Here are some key benefits:
- Enhances Motor Skills: Engaging with music can improve coordination and motor skills through rhythm and movement.
- Reduces Anxiety: Music has a calming effect, which can help alleviate anxiety and stress during the rehabilitation process.
- Boosts Mood: Listening to or creating music can elevate mood and promote a sense of well-being.
- Encourages Social Interaction: Group music therapy sessions foster social connections among participants, reducing feelings of isolation.
Music and Cognitive Function in Aging
As we age, cognitive decline can become a concern. However, engaging with music has been shown to positively influence cognitive function in older adults. Research indicates that:
- Memory Recall: Familiar music can trigger memories and enhance recall abilities.
- Attention and Focus: Listening to music can improve concentration and attention span, making tasks easier to complete.
- Language Skills: Singing along to songs can help maintain and even improve language abilities.
- Brain Plasticity: Learning to play an instrument or engaging in musical activities can promote brain plasticity, leading to improved cognitive functions.
The Connection Between Music and Emotional Well-being
Music has a profound effect on our emotions, and its impact on mental health is significant. Here are some ways music can enhance emotional well-being:
- Emotional Expression: Music provides an outlet for expressing emotions, helping individuals process feelings of sadness, joy, or anxiety.
- Therapeutic Benefits: Music therapy can be used to treat conditions such as depression and PTSD by providing a safe space for emotional exploration.
- Community and Belonging: Participating in musical groups fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is vital for mental health.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation: Listening to calming music can promote mindfulness and relaxation, reducing stress levels.
Practical Tips for Incorporating Music into Daily Life
To reap the benefits of music in your daily routine, consider the following tips:
- Create Playlists: Curate playlists that evoke positive memories or emotions to enhance your mood throughout the day.
- Join a Choir or Music Group: Engaging in group singing or playing an instrument can provide social interaction and emotional support.
- Set Aside Time for Music: Dedicate time each day to listen to music, whether during meals, while exercising, or as part of a relaxation routine.
- Explore New Genres: Experiment with different types of music to discover new favorites that resonate with you.
