Music can help recall memories of dementia sufferers

Music can help keep memories and connections alive after developing dementia, a study reveals. Research conducted by Bupa Care Homes found that being forgotten, or losing a personal connection are the main two worries that plight the people worrying about a loved one developing dementia. The report revealed that music is a powerful form of therapy that can help to evoke memories and overcome the loss of connections that dementia inflicts. The study found that the 82 percent of people tested have experienced a vivid memory when listening to a particular song or piece of music. In addition, a further 81 percent agree that music reminds them of a time, such as a past holiday they enjoyed, or person, in their lives. Despite this, less than one in ten percent said they would think of using music to connect with someone living with dementia. What’s more, only a third of respondents, 29 percent, could name an important song and its significance for their parents, e.g.it was played at their wedding and not even half could for a partner, even though music has the ability trigger memories. With an estimated 950,000 people across the UK expected to be living with dementia by 2021, Bupa is encouraging everyone to discover their parents’ and partners’ “memory playlist” in order to keep powerful connections alive in later life. Dementia’s symptoms include the loss memory, mood changes and problems with communication and reasoning. The condition develops progressively when the brain experiences damage from certain diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and damage caused by a series of small strokes. Symptoms of dementia will gradually get worse and how fast it develops depends on each individual and what type of dementia they have.