How Music Can Be a Calming Strategy for a Loved One with Dementia
Caring for a loved one with dementia requires planning, patience, and compassion. Sticking to routines and finding tools to support your caregiving efforts can make a big difference. One powerful tool is music. Studies have shown that music offers numerous benefits for individuals with dementia, from reducing agitation to promoting positive thinking.
Our in-home memory care team incorporates music into daily routines to provide comfort, enhance communication, and bring moments of joy to your loved one’s day.
How Music Helps Those with Dementia
Music has a unique way of reaching areas of the brain that may be less affected by dementia. It can:
- Bring forth memories tied to specific songs or melodies.
- Elicit emotions that are comforting or uplifting.
- Improve communication and create opportunities for meaningful connections.
- Provide a calming distraction in moments of stress or agitation.
By using music as a caregiving tool, you can create a more positive and enjoyable experience for your mom, even during challenging moments.
Five Ways to Incorporate Music into Mom’s Day
Music can be enjoyed in many forms—singing, humming, listening, or playing instruments. Here are five ways to bring music into her daily routine:
- Play Music from Her Youth
Music from her teenage years or early adulthood often resonates the most. Find popular songs from when she was 12–18 years old. If a particular song sparks a positive reaction, ask her about the memories it brings. You might discover stories or emotions she hasn’t shared before—what’s known as reminiscence therapy. - Sing During Downtime
Waiting in lines or at appointments can be frustrating. Sing simple songs with her to pass the time and lift her spirits. Start humming a tune Raindrops on Roses… and encourage her to join in or fill in the lyrics before you know it she will be telling you a few of her favorite things. - Explore Instruments
If your mom enjoyed playing an instrument in her younger years, consider reintroducing it. Even if she can’t remember every note, holding and playing an instrument can bring joy. For beginners, start with easy options like tambourines or maracas to keep rhythm with favorite songs. - Use Music to Calm Stressful Moments
Evenings, transitions or tasks like bathing can sometimes be overwhelming. Soft, calming music in the background—such as Frank Sinatra’s “What a Wonderful World”—can help create a spa-like atmosphere and make these moments more peaceful and her more agreeable. - Dance for Fun and Movement
Turn up her favorite tunes and encourage movement, whether it’s tapping her toes, clapping, or swaying to the beat. Dancing can be a fun way to get gentle exercise and enjoy time together. For safety, ensure support like a walker or a sturdy surface if needed.
Music: A Key Part of In-Home Memory Care
Music is more than entertainment—it’s a powerful tool for emotional and physical well-being. When your loved one is feeling agitated or unsettled, music can often bring calm and comfort in ways that words or medications cannot.
Our in-home care team understands the value of music and incorporates it into daily activities to make the time spent together more meaningful and joyful. Let us help your mom experience the many benefits of music, creating moments of connection, peace, and happiness.
If your loved one is in need of in-home memory care in Lincoln, NE, please contact Home Care Partners today for a FREE consultation at (402) 780-1211. If your loved one’s wish is to continue living in their forever home, we can make that possible.
Home Care Partners is a top provider of care management services in Lincoln, NE and Lancaster County. We Bring Assisted Living Home.
Our Caregiving team provides personal one-on-one attention for your loved one. When you are ready to begin your care journey, we are the experts that will answer your questions and help you implement a plan.
Home Care Partners is locally owned and committed to providing Thoughtful, Quality, and Dedicated Care.
- 🌟 Happy New Year from Our Home Care Team! 🌟 - January 3, 2025
- Instead of More Medications, Consider Music for Mom: - December 30, 2024
- Walking the Path of “ambiguous loss” Together: A Daughter’s Guide to Loving Someone with Dementia - December 20, 2024
