On 23 September, marking the occasion of World Alzheimer’s Day, the Info-Zenter Demenz, the national information centre on dementia in Luxembourg, organised a conference on the topic “Music for a better quality of life with dementia”, with Prof. Dr Theo Hartogh. The Info-Zenter Demenz sent us this report about the event.
One of the symptoms of dementia is increasing memory impairment. New information can no longer be stored and remembered well. Memory loss starts with recent events and, as the disease evolves, gradually progresses to memories from earlier years, such as experiences from youth and young adulthood, which are the last to disappear. Researchers have found, however, that memories of music are partially unaffected by this forgetting. Dementia actually seems to spare the long-term memory for music.
The power of music is huge, whether it is being listened to or whether people are actively playing music themselves. Music has many positive effects - for everyone, not only for people with dementia. Music is generally considered the ultimate way to reach people with dementia. It awakens memories and makes it possible to express feelings. Even where language is limited or no longer available, communication is possible thanks to music. For many people affected by dementia, music is a bridge to their own past, which evokes emotional memories. Music strengthens their identity: suddenly they realise "this is me", "I feel like myself", "I have a connection to this song". People affected by dementia can suddenly "wake up". Only music works this way.
Another aspect is participation. Making music together is a positive activity for people with dementia. It promotes the exchange with others, sociability and self-confidence. For people with dementia, music seems to be literally unforgettable. When playing music with them it becomes clear that human beings are more than just their brain functions, their minds. Music definitely contributes to a better quality of life for people living with dementia. The Info-Zenter Demenz is the national information and counselling centre in Luxembourg for all questions related to the topic. The team is available Monday to Saturday and can be reached by phone (+352 26 47 00) or email (mail@i-zd.lu).
