Discover How Music Can Help Alzheimer’s Patients

Caregivers in East Hampton NY: Discover How Music Can Help Alzheimer’s Patients

Music is a great way to trigger memories that your dad or mom may have forgotten. With the use of music, you might find your dad telling stories you’ve never heard before. Your mom may find a song makes her want to sing and dance. For an Alzheimer’s patient, music can help with motor function, memory, and reduce stress.

Be prepared to watch your parent’s reaction to certain songs. If a song reminds him or her of a bad break-up, you’ll want to quickly shut it off and find something else. Here’s more about how music can help Alzheimer’s patients.

Pick Music for Your Mom or Dad’s Late Teens and Early 20s to Get the Best Stories

The music of your mom or dad’s teens and early adults is likely to spark the best stories. If your mom idolized Elvis in her teen years, Elvis music may bring to mind stories you’ve never heard. You’ll have to find artists that match the appropriate years, but you may be looking at people like Bob Dylan, the Beatles, and Buddy Holly.

Create Soothing Background Noise for Bedtime Routines

Sleep disturbances are common in Alzheimer’s patients. This is a good time to introduce new artists. You want soothing music. Some music sites have stations specifically designed to play soft acoustic music. There are no lyrics to listen too, just soft piano, guitar, or classical music that avoids loud interruptions such as drums.

Reduce Stress

As your parent’s Alzheimer’s progresses, there may come a time when it’s hard for your mom or dad to verbalize things. Music is helpful at venting frustrations. Whether it’s by drumming fingers in time to a piece of music or dancing to a beat, it can help reduce stress and agitation.

Enjoy a Touching Moment Together

While your mom or dad can still move around, dancing together to favorite pieces of music is a touching way to spend time. It’s also a good way for a couple to share a tender moment together. Film the dance for future viewings.

When you’re caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s, your own emotional and physical health must be a priority. If you become overwhelmed, you’re more likely to get irritated or snappy with your mom or dad. Make sure you have caregivers available to offer you a break. With the help of caregivers from a senior care agency, you’ll have time to go out with friends, spend quality time with your spouse, or attend a child’s recital. Make sure you call a home care agency to arrange respite coverage.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring a professional caregiver in East Hampton, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.