Alzheimer's Disease and Music Therapy

By Kevin McNally

Activities for Alzheimers patients will often depend on the stages of Alzheimer's disease that the person is at. Alzheimer disease and music therapy are now used in many cases with some amazing results. One of the most remarkable things about this sad disease is the joy and comfort that Alzheimer's disease and music therapy can bring, my late Gran suffered from Alzheimer's in her latter years and my Dad used to always play some old songs on a Wednesday night.

Despite not being able to remember any short term conversations she would often remember and sing along to songs that she first heard over 50 years ago! I always thought that was amazing, she would often mention things from way back in the past going back to her childhood yet wouldn't be able to remember a conversation you had a few minutes ago.

Other activities for Alzheimer's patients include

Playing cards

Playing Dominoes

Looking at old family photographs

Playing Bingo

Reading books

Completing crosswords

Dancing

Activities for dementia sufferers will obviously depend on the stages of dementia that the person is going through. However there are still many enjoyable activities that especially those in the early stages of Alzhemier's can enjoy.

Indeed, my Gran visited here sister in Florida when she was over 80 years old and this was a 10 hour flight from Scotland to Florida accompanied by many of her family of course but still a remarkable achievement.

A loving and caring environment is very important when planning activities. You may have a strong large family unit who can operate on a rota system all providing care and attention at different stages throughout the day and night. Or your friend or relative may be in an Alzheimer's care home and sharing these activities with other patients.

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