Music is powerful, it can create a thread of memory helping us to recall happy times, and taking us to a place in our lives that we have long forgotten.
Music is stored as a procedural memory which is associated with rhythm and repetitive activities. As Alzheimer’s progresses and memories fade, a person’s ability to engage in music, particularly rhythm playing and singing remains intact late into the disease process.
At Brookside we create playlists within the community or on personal i-Pods. Listening to their favorite songs and artists allows music to tap into the memories. This can shift mood, manage stress induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements.
