The prevalence of dementia is increasing as our population ages. Distressing behavioral problems associated with the illness are found to be better managed with evidence that calming music can produce desired cognitive effects. The effect of music may not be lasting, but there is evidence of benefit in studies.
For all of us there are memories associated with music. As we care for one another during the aging process, learning about what music has keenly influenced the lives of those we care for can allow for moments of calm and truce when words do not suffice.
One of the things I’ll be doing in the light of the full moon on Christmas night is singing to a 2000+ pound draft horse named Hans. He loves it. When he was a baby I would give his beautiful mother Nellie (of equal size) some respite and discovered that he absolutely loved music and to this day finds it calming.
May the power of music bring you, and those you care for, comfort and joy!
Ramona Hunt, M.S.
Touching Hearts Inc.
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