Alzheimer's And The Benefits Of Music

by Brenda Dapkus

I wish I had a nickel for every time I've heard a caregiver say, "My mom just sits there and stares; she won't respond to any activity I suggest." For those who face this challenge, your loved one has probably progressed from late middle to late stage Alzheimer's Disease. The good news is that music is an activity!

When I say music, I'm not talking about Country and Western, Easy Listening, or any other style of music that they listened to before they developed Alzheimer's. They've regressed to a much earlier time; a time where the popular songs of the day are songs you might not know.

One particular song that comes to mind, and one that my residents loved, is A Bicycle Built For Two. Play that song, and see if your loved one's face doesn't light up. Play that song, and chances are great that you might just see them tap their toes or begin to sing! Friends, I have seen it happen over and over. Read on to see other ways that music can help, and to see a partial list of the Golden Oldies and vendors that sell them.

Music from their youth can also improve their eating and overall mood. Play that music softly at mealtime, and I believe that it can remind them of being at home with mom and dad -- a time that is comforting and makes them feel secure.

Music from the good old days is not only an activity, it can also be used as a diversion from behaviors caused from agitations, frustration and loss of control. With some residents, I used a portable CD player, and put headphones on them -- instant change in behavior!

You might be thinking that you'd like to try this music, but you have no idea what those songs are or if anyone even makes a cd of these songs. Here is more good news: These songs are not only available on cd, there are several companies that sell them.

Wouldn't it be wonderful to see a smile on the face that is so dear to you?

Golden Oldies

Hello! Ma Baby

The Sidewalks of New York

Cuddle Up A Little Closer

Alice Blue Gown

Look For The Silver Lining

It's a Long, Long Way To Tippary

Keep The Home Fires Burning

You're A Grand Old Flag

How Ya Gonna Keep 'Em

I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles

I'll Be With You In Apple Blossom Time

The Sweetheart of Sigma Chi

Wait 'Til The Sun Shines, Nellie

The Whiffenpoof Song

Let The Rest Of The World Go By

Oh! Susanna

After The Ball

I Want A Girl (just like the girl that married dear old dad)

The Band Played On

In My Merry Oldsmobile

Margie

In The Good Old Summertime

That's An Irish Lullaby

Sweet Rosie O'Grady

Oh Johnny, Oh Johnny, Oh!

In The Shade Of The Old Apple Tree

The Bells Of St. Mary's

Meet Me Tonight In Dreamland

Meet Me In St. Louis, Louis

Now Is The Hour

Bicycle Built For Two
And many, many more!

Visit the "Alzheimer's Store" for music products . The list of these songs is only the beginning; there are many, many more!