It's no secret that dementia results in a difficult diagnosis for the patient and their family. At Senior Helpers of Sheboygan, we support families dealing with a dementia diagnosis through our comprehensive services and resources. Today, we're diving into music therapy as well as how it may improve the quality of life for seniors with dementia and their family members.
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is an evidence-based approach that utilizes music and music-related activities to help improve physical, emotional, cognitive, as well as social functioning in various populations.
Music therapists are trained professionals who help people of all ages and backgrounds use music to reach their therapeutic goals. Essentially, it's a form of psychotherapy that uses various music-based activities. These activities help individuals and their families work through challenges and gain new coping strategies.
Benefits of Music Therapy for Seniors with Dementia
Music therapy effectively improves the quality of life for seniors with dementia. Here are some of its benefits:
Improved Cognitive Function
Music therapy improves cognitive function in seniors with dementia. It also helps improve alertness, language skills, memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities.
Improved Mood
Music therapy can also be an enjoyable activity for seniors with dementia. This, in turn, can help improve their overall mood as well as make them more engaged in activities.
Improved Communication
It can also help seniors with dementia improve their communication abilities by providing a creative and non-threatening way to share their feelings and build relationships with those around them.
Reduced Anxiety
Music therapy can also help reduce anxiety in seniors and provide them with a sense of control and engagement.
Benefits of Music Therapy for Family Members
Music therapy can also be beneficial for family members of seniors with dementia. In fact, here are some of the benefits:
Improved Quality of Life
Music therapy can provide family members with a new activity to share with their loved ones and an opportunity to reconnect and make new memories.
Improved Communication
Music therapy can also help families better understand the needs of their loved ones and provide them with an outlet for communication.
Reduced Stress
Music therapy can allow family members to relax as well as unwind from the stress of caring for a loved one with dementia.
Improved Bonding
It can help families develop a stronger bond with their loved one as well as create more meaningful interactions.
Organizations That May Provide Funding for Music Therapy for Families in Wisconsin
Wisconsin organizations may fund music therapy for families caring for a loved one with dementia. In fact, a couple of these organizations include:
We Can Help
Music therapy represents a powerful modality for seniors with dementia and their family members. It can provide cognitive, emotional, as well as social benefits for those living with dementia and improve family members' quality of life and communication.
If you're looking for more assistance for seniors in Sheboygan, Plymouth, Cedar Grove, Port Washington, Saukville, Kewaskum, Chilton, Kiel, New Holstein, or Mount Calvary, Senior Helpers of Sheboygan can assist. Contact us today to learn more about our in-home care services.