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Donate NowWhen someone has Alzheimer’s, their reality often takes them back in time. For Paula, music was something she had always loved, and continued to love, despite the disease. It turns out, that’s the case for a lot of people with Alzheimer’s. Music is one of the most prominent memories stored in the brain. Those neural networks make connections that stay intact. There are many stories about how music connects and brings joy to people with Alzheimer’s, no matter how far they are into their diagnosis. Music therapy is a valuable resource in memory care and nursing homes.
Paula loved all types of music. She was a singer, played guitar, led children’s choirs and belonged to choral groups. She retained her love for music to the very end. Four days before she passed, even though Paula had been nonverbal for a week, our daughter came into her room and whispered in her ear that it was our daughter’s birthday. Paula started singing happy birthday to her. Those were the last words Paula said.
If you haven’t used music in caring for your loved one, you might try incorporating it. Studies have shown music may improve behavioral issues that are common in the middle-stages of the disease. As with Paula, even in the late stages of Alzheimer's, a person may be able to tap a beat or sing lyrics to a song from childhood. It’s best to use songs that are easily recognizable. There are YouTube channels especially for people with dementia that feature music from the 40s, 50s, and 60s.
Music isn’t the only way to connect with your loved one throughout the Alzheimer’s journey. Hobbies, activities and art can also be helpful. A friend of mine told me she and her husband loved going for walks with the dog in the past, and he continued to enjoy it, even after his diagnosis. Others have told me their husbands liked riding in the car and being able to look around. Going for a drive with a friend or family member can be a great way for you, the caregiver, to take a break. Another friend told me his wife loves reading the newspaper every day. She reads the entire paper. When she is done, she has no idea what she read but it’s what she always used to do, and it still brings her joy. That is the goal – to bring some joy into the day – whether it’s through music, activities, photos or something specific to your loved one. By incorporating it, you have a good chance at helping them relax and making the day a little easier for both of you.