SENIOR NEWS LINE by Matilda Charles
Researchers revealed a year ago that singing could greatly help Parkinson’s disease patients with breathing, speaking and memory. Now researchers have discovered singing also helps those with dementia.
In a study from the University of Helsinki, 89 pairs of patients (with mild to moderate dementia) plus their caregivers were assigned for 10 weeks to one of three groups: listening to music, singing, or only standard care. After nine months, patients were assessed, and researchers found better memory function, focusing, planning, multitasking, orientation and mood in the groups that participated in music.
The results weren’t the same, though. The biggest benefit for memory and orientation came from the singing group, especially those with mild dementia. In patients with more severe dementia, it was listening to familiar music that provided cognitive benefits. Researchers suggested that in early, mild dementia, singing could help maintain memory. In both groups, music helped alleviate depression, especially in those with mild Alzheimer’s disease.
Music as a therapy for Alzheimer’s isn’t new. In 1989, researchers in Colorado conducted a small study to determine if music had any impact on patient physical and social behavior. Specifically, they wanted to encourage conversation. The results showed that those who participated in group singing had higher vocal and verbal behaviors than those who were in the discussion-only group.
In a recent study in Israel, researchers wanted to encourage conversation in mostly nonverbal patients with middle to late Alzheimer’s by using familiar songs. Songs were carefully chosen and behaviors were noted after each one. The result was that songs related to their social and national identity brought out memories and much subsequent conversation. Afterward the participants had a feeling of accomplishment and belonging.
Have you considered the benefits of joining a local choir or chorus?
(c) 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.
