How to Use Music as a Health Aid in Dementia

Working in a Residential home recently a conscientious carer sought to cheer up the residents whilst she was clearing the meal table. Being of a happy disposition and with a pleasant singing voice she thought back to some of the music she remembered her mother singing around the house and launched into some familiar 'singalong' type songs.

The residents, all over the age of seventy and with varying forms of dementia, smiled and listened. Within a very short space of time one or two were seen silently mouthing the words. One brave soul began to join in, fingers were seen to be tapping on chair arms and feet started to move in rhythm. Very soon the sound of singing started to permeate beyond the Dining Room and was soon picked up by other members of staff, who after their initial surprise, joined in the choruses, much to the obvious enjoyment of their charges.

Later that evening while preparing one resident for bed the same carer found herself humming one of the tunes that she had sung previously. The client, an elderly gentleman, was usually fairly co-operative but would never speak, what little communication that took place was normally by way of minimal use of signs or nods when asked a question - and little else.

Picking up on the sound of the now familiar song, the usual air of disinterest was gradually changed into a smile of recognition and a glint of interest in otherwise lack-lustre eyes. The carer responded by singing the actual words - " ........ who, who, who's your lady friend?" An almost mischievous smile appeared and the resident wagged his finger at her in mock accusation - exactly as she had done to him earlier in the evening. The carer laughed with him and said in friendly banter, "I bet you have some tales to tell!".

It was a very simple matter to get him to bed (and sleep) in what appeared to be a very contented state of mind. He has not got to the point of 'telling any tales' yet, but when he becomes a little agitated or difficult to persuade a song works wonders.

Although the residents frequently had opportunity to listen to the radio or CD's in their room or communal lounges, when coupled with a direct communication, i.e. the carer actually singing to the individual and making it personal and importantly, interactive, this is when it can be seen that music can be very beneficial for health and well being.

The same principle applies in a home care situation. It is so easy to just switch the radio or television on in the hope that it will act as a distraction and leave the hapless individual unattended for ages with just 'something to listen to'. Whenever possible interaction and encouragement to join in leads to a response, even to the extent of a faint smile, and means we may have added just a little to the quality of life.

When caring for those with dementia it also pays to be aware of the persons reaction to different types of music or even individual pieces. Although in the majority of cases the effects are beneficial, occasionally an adverse reaction can arise, for example when a bad experience or memory is triggered and causes agitation. Another reason of course to ensure that a) a conscious effort is made to provide the 'right' type of music and, b) that there is an interactive element or at least an ongoing communication to assess the response.

Are there ways that you can implement suitable music to 'lift the spirit' or improve the quality of life of those in your care?