MUSIC MATTERS!

As our loved ones age, the sands of time take a toll on so many aspects of their lives. Dementia and Alzheimer's impact 1 out of 3 senior citizens. Serious diseases like cancer and heart disease can bring great difficulties to their health and quality of life. As was mentioned in a previous article, challenges with their hearing and inner ear can bring about issues not only with balance, but the ability to communicate effectively and enjoy life.

One practice families should consider is the use of music to improve the quality of life of their beloved senior family member. Music has a calming, relaxing impact on our attitudes and even on our physiology. The use of familiar or sentimental music with Alzheimer's or dementia patients can calm their behavior and their temperaments. Beyond that, many times the use of music in these situation can bring those individuals back to a point where they can communicate more clearly than they normally do.

Music can be provided through a variety of methods. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Cable Music Channels- Most cable providers have a selection of "music only" channels as a part of their basic programming.
2. "Alexa, play big band music!"- Families with wireless access in their home might consider the use of an "Alexa" or other similar device.
3. Get on the Device- Using a computer, tablet or even smartphone can provide access to acceptable music as well.
4. YouTube Famous- Families who are familiar with YouTube can set up playlists of music videos for their loved one to access via the computer, tablet or smartphone
5. Music Streaming Platforms- Pandora, Amazon Music, Spotify and iTunes are all great services to quality music.

Start out slow, and understand that your loved one may have challenges with the complexities or unfamiliarity of technology. You may need to help them, educate and then show them multiple times on how to access a variety of music options. In the end, it will be worth it!

Page Cole
Visiting Angels of Tulsa
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville
Visiting Angels of SWOKC

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