Music Therapy Assists at Every Stage of Dementia

Parc Provence uses a unique, holistic, person-centered model of care. We meet residents at their cognitive and physical abilities, working to help them achieve goals and maintain their abilities for as long as possible. The evidence-based effect of music therapy improves cognitive function and memory loss for people at any stage or with any type of dementia. It also enriches our residents’ quality of life, mental health, and overall well-being.

Here are the benefits of music therapy as well as examples of techniques provided at Parc Provence for each stage of dementia.

Early stage

Activities include reminiscing, socializing, self-expression, movement, and singing. The early-stage intervention also focuses on positive conversation and creates a sense of community.

At this stage, a music therapist may use songwriting as an intervention for people with only mild cognitive impairment. Prior to a therapy session, the therapist writes an outline of the song; it may be active music that is something familiar or something new. Often, the therapist uses a particular theme (i.e., summer), which can help the participating resident become more aware of the time of the year or an upcoming holiday. During a therapy session, the therapist uses a fill-in-the-blank outline to encourage the participant to personalize the lyrics for the song. The therapist may use questions to prompt the participant (i.e., “What do you like to do in the summertime?” or “How do you spend time outside?”) and may assist in creating lyrics. Once the lyrics are complete, the caregiver will sing the personalized song to or with the participant.

Middle stage

Activities for this stage are designed to help the participant maintain focus, grip, and finger dexterity, in addition to increasing autonomy and building and maintaining relationships with friends and family.

The music therapist may bring a variety of instruments to a therapy session, including shakers, tambourines, and hand drums. The therapist will encourage participants to use instruments in time with the music. Such activities encourage grip, which in turn helps support skills needed for independent living, such as holding utensils or gripping a walker. Participants find that the use of music instruments is a fun way to work on maintaining focus, too.

Late stage

As cognitive decline occurs, goals at this stage include reality orientation and relaxation. Music intervention can also promote a reduction in anxiety.

The music therapist may use a live or recorded music playlist with a calm and relaxing tempo. Often, this type of music is also repetitive and predictable, qualities that help dementia patients reach a relaxed state. When a piece of music’s tempo is slow, it can lower heart and breathing rates in the listener. While music is playing, the therapist may read from a script that helps focus the participants on their breath, encouraging calm and relaxation. After such a session, participants are relaxed and have reduced anxiety, allowing them to participate in additional activities.

End stage

At this stage, goals include increasing participants’ awareness and sensory stimulation, as well as regulating breathing, in addition to reconnecting with spiritual values and reminiscing with family members.

At this stage, the music therapist often helps family members make connections with their loved ones. A therapist might encourage family and participants to sing familiar songs and talk about the memories they share. The therapist can help family members ask questions in a way that makes it easier for a loved one to respond. Familiar music can help a person with end-stage Alzheimer’s disease or dementia become more aware of their surroundings, which, in turn, can help facilitate interactions within a family group.

Music and Memory

Music can be integrated into the daily living of dementia care residents in a number of ways. Our certified music therapists use a variety of techniques to engage several parts of the brains of our Alzheimer’s patients. Whether playing an instrument, singing a favorite song, or listening to a familiar piece of music, participants benefit from musical memory in both short-term and long-term ways.

We encourage you to contact us to find out how our Music-Based Therapy Program can make a difference in the life of your loved one. Parc Provence is leading the way in memory care for older adults—because every moment matters.

Come See for Yourself

At Parc Provence, we can help you learn about the benefits of memory care without pressure. Our residents and their families always come first. Their comfort and care is our number one priority. We are proud of our healthcare services, and we would love to give you a tour of our community. Call us today at 314-582-9795 for more information or to schedule a personal tour.

Come See for Yourself

At Parc Provence, we can help you learn about the benefits of memory care without pressure. Our residents and their families always come first. Their comfort and care is our number one priority. We are proud of our services, and we would love to give you a tour of our community. Call us today at 314-697-2081 for more information, or to schedule a personal tour.