Sometimes as people age, they stop doing the things they looked forward to and loved when they were younger. This is especially true if dementia enters the picture. People can become isolated, depressed, uninterested in things they used to do. One in ten people 65 or older will develop Alzheimer’s or other dementias. At age 85, this number jumps to one in three.

Music can be an answer, an intervention for seniors in this situation. Playing, singing, even listening to music can boost cognition, affect well being, and contribute to happiness. Focusing on stories and life histories contributes to well being. Music therapists often use something called “reminiscence therapy,” and music is key. Hearing music that is familiar and connected to past memories can have a positive effect on depression. Since music connects us so intensely to our emotions, it can bring up old memories, especially happy or life changing ones. The effect music has on cognition is dramatic. Research has shown that because of something called “neuroplasticity,” our brains continue to learn, adapt and grow. It was once thought that once we became adults, our brains were fixed in their capacity to expand in new ways. Or if the brain became injured, it would not fully recover. This is not so! Our brains are capable of continuing to increase neural capacity as we age. There are a number of factors that support cognitive functioning and music is a major one. 

Music can generate movement, something that’s very good for general well being. Singing is another way to affect mood and well being. When people sing together in groups, something magical happens. They begin to breathe together, and their hearts beat in sync. Voices combine to create unisons and harmonies, and this leads to increased brain activity and better general cognition. Being emotionally connected to the music sparks memories, interpersonal connection, and feeling good. There is so much potential for joy, laughter, community and friendship through music. Singing in a group is life affirming, curbs social isolation, and fosters an environment to thrive.

When members of CMA’s LifeSong Chorus get together to sing once a week, they sing, learn, and laugh together. The group is designed for those individuals who are living with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their care partners. We welcome anyone who would like to sing with the group, regardless of age or background, so please join us in this joyful endeavor and make music in community with our wonderful elders.

Kathy Kucsan, Ph.D.
Education Director and Co-Founder