Why The Sound of Music Matters to Seniors

Using MRI scans, researchers at MIT have been able to analyze the brain’s auditory cortex.  What they found was startling: it has dedicated parts that deal with music, apart from the sector that deals with speech or other auditory functions.  There are still questions that remain unsolved.  For example, is this portion of the brain that is reserved for music innate (we are genetically born with this feature) or does these segments of the brain develop as we age listening and appreciating music? But unless you are a cognitive scientist, that and the other remaining issues are irrelevant.   The important message, for the average layperson, is that music is appreciated even after we may lose the ability to speak or to recognize people.  This is great news for patients who may suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s.  They can still be reached (and do enjoy life) through music.

There are many additional benefits to listening to music: Many elderly disconnect from any social interactions.  This is a great way for them to be connected, again. Instead of just idling away time, music can provide hours of entertainment. Music encourages physical movements such as clapping, dancing (or just moving your feet to keep time) and snapping of the fingers and other motions. Music helps relieve sadness and gloom.  Rather than succumb to moments of depression - moments that we all experience from time to time - music can be soothing for our frayed nerves. Music can help with interaction. Once you have selected your favorite songs, you will want to share them not only with cohorts but with your family members and volunteers as well.  What can you do? When you are in a foul mood, listen to a song that will put you in a better frame of mind. Develop a personalized playlist.  You can then listen to all of it (repeatedly), randomly select the songs you want to hear, or shuffle the entire list, surprising yourself with the next tune. Contact the non-profit organization that helps promote music for the elderly at musicandmemory.org for more information. Remember that when it comes to music there is nothing to lose.  When you use it, if you get tired of listening to the music, you can always shut it off.  Most likely, though, you will want your favorite song never to end.   Share with us your favorite song (and artist) at www.MatureAging.com, and we may list it in our next edition.