Music Therapy Works!

A new study has shown singing show tunes has helped increase cognitive abilities of people who have dementia.

A new study has shown singing show tunes has helped increase cognitive abilities of people who have dementia. Nursing home residents were involved in the study. One half of the group participated in singing show tunes, while the other half just listened. The half who sang showed improvement in a cognitive exam. The group met three times a week for 50 minute sessions. While singing is definitely not a cure for dementia, it’s an activity that has been proven to engage and help those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia. As people live longer, more individuals are likely to develop dementia. Progression of this condition requires a great deal of care and support, which our society needs to continue to address and innovate. Music therapy has been actively used in dementia care, and research findings will continue to contribute to the area of this cognitive deteriorating condition. Individualized music therapy has potential for managing this symptom in persons with dementia. It’s also an activity in which we can participate with our loved one; it’s fun and doesn’t cost much. So break out the show tunes recordings and start singing! Watch this short video from  to learn more.​