When it comes to aging in today’s world, people are increasingly concerned with the mental, psychological and neurological aspects of getting older. Although individuals are living longer than ever before in history, people are looking around and noticing that not everyone is enjoying life in the years after retirement. This is largely due to the ravages of diseases like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Music has been shown to be effective in the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease, with patients showing an ability to recall past events and memories much more easily after being exposed to meaningful music. It connects with human emotion in a way that few other things can, and it stimulates the brain in ways that have doctors, researchers and scientists excited about the possibilities of conquering dementia in the near future.
Sing Out for Better Brain Health!
Music therapists have been experiencing extraordinarily positive results from exposing dementia patients to music, but new research suggests that performing music might be even more helpful for seniors with neurological difficulties.
We all know how good it feels to sing in the shower or to belt out a favorite song along with the radio after a long day at work. But for seniors who wish to reawaken their brains and nurture mental connections, singing might actually be something of a life saver!
The Science of Singing
As it turns out, a new study has concluded that singing can play a significant, positive role in the effort to combat the effects of various neurological disorders. Researchers involved in the study, which was published in the journal ‘Music Perception,’ found that singing was able to stimulate areas of the brain that are responsible for the regulation of emotional wellness. Additionally, they found that singing generally helped older individuals communicate by improving enunciation and projection.
Here are three amazing facts about the benefits of singing for seniors:
#1 — Singing Promotes a Higher Overall Quality of Life
Study participants — all of them, in fact — reported higher levels of self confidence, wellbeing and quality of life after their singing sessions.
#2 — Singing Helps the Body, Too!
Researchers at Washington DC’s George Washington University determined that singing not only helps aging brains, but it can also improve posture, eyesight and breathing in addition to reducing necessary hospital visits among participants.
#3 — Singing Brings Seniors Together
One of the saddest realities of senior life is that social connections often dwindle once a person has reached post retirement age. When singing is done in groups, it brings people together and helps foster connections that might not otherwise be possible.
Learn More from Always Best Care
Are you caring for an aging individual? Are you concerned about their neurological health and you’re not sure what you can do to help? You don’t have to do it all on your own. Always Best Care is here to help you! Call us today and learn about our amazing caregivers. Just dial 1 (855) 470-CARE (2273) now to schedule your FREE consultation!
