This inspired our concern and compassion for people with dementia and started our investigation into the powers of music when focused and used therapeutically. What better “medicine” than a “treatment” that has only positive side effects and “therapy” that is actually enjoyable. That is the “miracle of music” when applied with intention.

Our Mission Statement that encompasses our goal of making the therapeutic use of music a required element of the Care Plan, underlies our belief that a “daily dose of song” is critical to improving quality of life and in the management of emotions and behaviors; ultimately we hope leading to a reduction in the use of medications and possibly contributing to a slowing of the progression of disease and conditions.

Over the past ten years as our work with seniors evolves, we are dedicated to educating Caregivers of all types and in all settings about the power of music. To more concretely illustrate the necessity and efficacy of music for this population, we have conceptualized the following key points.

Music as Communication

As speech, writing and other traditional forms of communication are compromised, music provides an alternative means of maintaining a connection thereby helping to normalize interaction between Caregiver and Patient.

Music as Humanizing

Music is central to maintaining human bonds when those with dementia have lost the ability to initiate communication or to respond verbally. It has a humanizing effect on an institution where ultimately most suffering various conditions will spend the remainder of their lives. It facilitates staff in recognizing and honoring those they administer care to as individuals, separate from their disease.

Music Promotes Socialization

Music has been shown to create a cohesive environment in which people can relate to one another. Because humans are hard wired for music, natural rhythmic patterns are experienced by everyone and promote a type of nonverbal togetherness. This is an extremely important benefit for all of us as music helps us to forge social ties and a deeper understanding of one another. This is an essential element, for as we age and it becomes more difficult to get out into the world isolation is one of the most detrimental symptoms. With the use of music we can break through the isolation and create a social connection. Studies show that as we age socialization becomes the most important aspect of maintaining sound emotional health.

Music as Healing

As disease and conditions progress in an individual, he or she becomes increasingly vulnerable and unsure. Music used therapeutically creates an environment where the person can be nurtured and cared for in a way that is safe, gentle and appropriate. A number of research studies have looked at therapeutic music as an important adjunct to medical treatment and findings suggest a possible link between the use of music and slowing the progression of dementia.

Music is Universal

Although using music therapeutically does produce results that at times appear magical, it does not require any magic, musical ability or special skills to be successful. Making use of the instrument that resides in all of us, namely one’s voice and desire are the keys to effective implementation. Our program shows Caregiver’s the “how to’s” in an interactive training seminar we developed called Accentuate the Positive. (Attendees of this course are eligible to receive 2 CEUs.)