How Music Supports Memory

For many patients struggling with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, familiar melodies serve as keys to unlocking memories. Whether it’s a childhood lullaby, a wedding song, or a beloved hymn, music can illuminate the past and inspire moments of joy, clarity, and connection.

The Science Behind Music and Memory

Music is deeply intertwined with memory because of how our brains process sound. Unlike language, which is mostly processed in specific, localized areas of the brain, music engages multiple brain regions, especially those involved in emotion, movement, and memory, like the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. This is why someone with dementia may struggle to recall names of loved ones but can suddenly start singing all the words to a song they cherished years ago.

Music as Memory Care

Because of its’ strong connection to memory making, music is often used as a therapeutic treatment for dementia. Programs like MUSIC & MEMORY® use personalized playlists to help individuals with dementia evoke their lost memories, reduce their anxiety, improve their communication with loved ones, and enhance their quality of life.

Here’s how music therapy helps those with dementia:

• It improves memory and focus: Not only does listening to music stir vivid recollection of long memories – it also enhances other cognitive function, like concentration, and it improves their ability to form new memories.
• It boosts happiness: Even for those in an advanced stage of dementia, music can bring joy.
• It encourages communication: Music often encourages a verbal response, even from those who rarely speak.
• It reduces agitation and enhances calm: Listening to familiar, favorite tunes can soothe agitation and uplift mood.
• It fosters social connection: Group singalongs help those with dementia better connect with their loved ones, caregivers, and peers.

How to Use Music to Support a Loved One With Dementia

• Create a playlist: Include their favorite songs from their youth or memorable events in their life to evoke vivid memories that hold special meaning
• Watch for a positive response: Notice which songs elicit the most positive reactions – smiling, dancing, singing along – and play those more often.
• Use music to establish routines: Playing music and singing during daily activities like bathing or mealtimes can make these routines more enjoyable and easier to follow.
• Avoid overstimulation: Keep the volume moderate and avoid songs with sudden changes or loud instrumentation to prevent anxiety.

Compassionate Memory Care at Christian Health

When your loved one is living with dementia, properly caring for them on your own can be incredibly challenging. Across our comprehensive continuum of care, Christian Health provides compassionate memory care at various levels, in a safe and therapeutic environment to support older adults with dementia and bring peace of mind to their loved ones.

Courtyard at Longview, our memory care assisted living community, prioritizes safety while promoting independence and social interaction with many specialized programs and activities, such as MUSIC & MEMORY®, to enhance memory and bring comfort. To learn more about Courtyard, please contact Nicky Ivey, Director of Admissions, at (201) 848-4303 or NiIvey@ChristianHealthNJ.org or visit ChristianHealthNJ.info/Courtyard.