Music: The Unlocking of Forgotten Memories in Alzheimer's Patients
Music: The Unlocking of Forgotten Memories in Alzheimer's Patients
Alzheimer's disease is probably the most mean counterpart of life, which slowly strips one of memory and thought. In this dementia cloud, though, there is one powerful tool that pierces through mental haze: music. Research has shown that music can evoke strong emotional responses and memories even in cases of advanced Alzheimer's.
The Amygdala and the Power of Emotion
The small, almond-shaped region of the brain at the core of this phenomenon is called the amygdala. The important thing here is that it has a primary role in the processing of emotions. The amygdala forms firm connections with the hippocampus, which is in charge of memory. So, when we hear a piece of music, the activation is occurring in the amygdala and the hippocampus, thus highly linking it to that moment emotionally and in memory.
Even though the hippocampus might be severely damaged in Alzheimer's sufferers, the amygdala is usually much less afflicted. Indeed, this means that even while explicit memories are lost, implicit ones – such as those associated with music or other emotions – can still be drawn upon.
A Personal Soundtrack
Probably one of the most powerful arguments for music being a memory trigger comes when those who have Alzheimer's are given songs from their youth or other music related to life events. Familiarity allows them to transport back in time with vivid memories and emotions. This can be a great way to bring quality of life and to connect with loved ones.
Music Therapy: A Fertile Area
Music therapy is one of the valuable approaches to treat Alzheimer's today. Appropriately chosen music and engaging the patients in the process related to music can help the therapist achieve the following goals:
- Improve mood: Positive affectivity aroused by music can decrease anxiety and depression.
- Cognitive function: Music can stimulate the brain, enhancing the cognitive functions like attention, memory, and language.
- Facilitate social interaction: Group music activities can facilitate social interaction and connection with others.
The Soundtrack of Our Lives
Just as a great movie soundtrack can sweep us to another era and location, music can serve as a personal soundtrack for people with Alzheimer's. Tapping into the emotional power of music can help individuals affected get back in touch with their past and improve their quality of life.
The more we know about the brain and its relationship with music, the more obvious it becomes that music therapy can do much toward improving the lives of those with Alzheimer's. By using the power of music, we can help uncover forgotten memories and give moments of joy and connection back to those living with this challenging disease.
Although this is still being debated in science, I strongly believe that music might be able to help people both with the processes of "healing" and remembering. Having unforgettable melodies is the only way we can remember our lives.