Help ease dementia

As people live longer, it’s estimated that over one million people in the British Isles will have a diagnosis of dementia by 2025. And there’s currently no cure for this devastating condition.

But there are ways to ease its symptoms, and a new report has concluded that music can play a “powerful” role in improving the lives of those living with dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Society (AS; alzheimers. org.uk) says music is one of the ways to treat dementia symptoms without using drugs, in addition to the following...

1. COGNITIVE STIMULATION THERAPY (CST)

This is a range of activities which help keep the brain active, including puzzles, talking about the news, or doing something creative, like singing.

2. COGNITIVE REHABILITATION

Cognitive rehabilitation involves a therapist helping dementia patients to do activities they find difficult, such as learning or re-learning how to use household appliances or mobile phones. or managing daily tasks like cooking better. This gets parts of the brain that are working to help the parts that are not.

3. LIFE STORIES AND REMINISCENCE

This is a way to improve the mood, wellbeing and memory of people with dementia. For example, a scrapbook, photo album or app may be used to record or talk about important things that have happened in someone’s life, to make the memories easier to remember and access. Reminiscence work uses photos, objects or music in a similar way, to get people talking about their past.

4. MUSIC AND CREATIVE ARTS

The AS says making music, dancing and painting can keep the brain active, and it recommends joining one of its Singing for the Brain groups. The benefits of music extend beyond the person living with dementia.

We know those moments of connection with someone living with dementia can create a shared experience that enables people to be seen for who they are, beyond their diagnosis. It really can help to improve everyone’s mood.

5. COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES

The AS says aromatherapy, massage or bright light therapy – where a person sits in front of a very bright light box every day to help regulate the circadian rhythm, which can be disrupted by dementia – can be used, as well as other standard treatments.

It says people who are interested in trying complementary therapies for dementia should talk to their GP first, and should always make sure their therapist is properly trained.