The Healing Power of Music: How Does Music Therapy Help People Living with Early

1. The Healing Power of Music: How Music Therapy Helps Early Dementia 905.888.8808 info@memoryandcompany.com

2. What Is Music Therapy? • Music therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses music to address various needs, including physical, emotional, cognitive, and social aspects of well-being. • In Memory Care settings, it targets improving overall quality of life for individuals living with dementia. • Music therapy is a non-pharmacological treatment option that can complement other therapies.

3. Understanding Early Dementia • Dementia is characterized by a decline in mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. • Common Types: Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. • Early Symptoms: Frequent memory lapses, difficulty with familiar tasks, confusion about time/place, and mood swings. • Emotional Impact: The progression leads to emotional distress for both individuals and their families.

4. The Connection Between Music and the Brain • Brain Activation: Music stimulates the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC), where long-term memories are stored, enhancing emotional and cognitive functions. • Dopamine Release: Music triggers the release of dopamine, which stabilizes mood and reduces feelings of anxiety and depression. • Emotional Recall: Even as other memories fade, familiar music can evoke strong emotional responses and memories.

5. Benefits of Music Therapy for Early Dementia • Cognitive Improvement: Music therapy enhances memory recall and cognitive functions by stimulating the brain. • Emotional Regulation: Reduces anxiety, depression, and mood swings through the release of dopamine. • Social Interaction: Facilitates communication and social engagement, improving overall well-being. • Physical Coordination: Promotes motor skills and physical coordination through rhythm and movement.

6. Techniques in Music Therapy • Listening Therapy: Uses familiar songs to evoke memories and emotions. Personalized playlists are created based on individual preferences. • Instrument and Singing Therapy: Encourages vocal expression and playing instruments to facilitate communication and emotional expression. • Movement Therapy: Incorporates rhythm and dance to improve physical coordination and stimulate cognitive functions.

7. Getting Started with Music Therapy • Consult a Qualified Music Therapist: Ensure they specialize in dementia care. • Home-Based Therapy: Integrate music into daily routines using familiar songs, create playlists, and use simple instruments. • Engagement: Regularly participate in music activities to maintain cognitive functions and provide emotional comfort.

8. Music Therapy at Memory & Company • Personalized Care: Music therapy at Memory & Company is tailored to individual needs, preferences, and physical attributes. • Programs Offered: Available as part of our respite care, short-term care, and long-term care services. • Partnership: Collaborates with the University of Toronto for specialized Neurologic Music Therapy.

9. Comprehensive Memory Care at Memory & Company • Integrated Approach: Combines music therapy with other memory care services including recreation therapy, personal support, and social work. • Premium Day Program: Provides specialized care and support in both Oakville and Markham locations. • 24/7 Support: Continuous care and support to ensure the well-being of patients and their families. Ref: https://memoryandcompany.com/blog/how-does-music-therapy-help-people-living-with-early-dementia/

10. CONTACT US MARKHAM CLUB OAKVILLE CLUB 100 Renfrew Drive, Suite 110 Markham, Ontario L3R 9R6 407 Iroquois Shore Road, Unit 1 Oakville, Ontario L6H 1M3 markham@memoryandcompany.com oakville@memoryandcompany.com 905.888.8808 info@memoryandcompany.com www.memoryandcompany.com

11. Thank you 905.888.8808 info@memoryandcompany.com www.memoryandcompany.com