Individuals with memory impairments have distinct care needs, and therefore, their recommended therapies and care techniques also differ. Among the numerous available therapies, music, art, and reminiscence therapies hold significant importance. From helping individuals with cognitive impairments maintain a sense of self, improve communication, and reduce symptoms like agitation and anxiety, the benefits it yields are innumerable. At Oakleigh Macomb, we recognize the importance of these therapies as a whole and want to inform you about them. Hence, we are sharing a blog that summarizes what each of these therapies is, along with the benefits they carry.
What Is Music Therapy In Memory Care?
Music therapy in Memory Care is focused on addressing the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Activities this therapy entails include listening, singing, playing instruments, and moving to music. By planning these activities, the community aims to evoke positive emotions, spark memories, and enhance the mood and behavior of its residents.
Benefits Of Music Therapy
- Listening to music, especially familiar songs, can trigger happy memories and feelings of comfort, even for those with difficulty recalling other details.
- Music does wonders for stimulating different parts of the brain, improving cognitive functioning and engagement.
- Music therapy is found to reduce instances of agitation and anxiety.
- Moving to music can better your balance and coordination while playing an instrument enhances your fine motor skills.
- Singing, songwriting, or playing an instrument is likely to help residents express themselves if they face challenges with verbal communication.
What Is Art Therapy In Memory Care?
Memory care utilizes creative expressions such as painting, sculpting, or modeling. Through it, they aim to help residents express their feelings and experiences, particularly in cases where verbal communication is challenging for them. By facilitating various creative pursuits, the community seeks to stimulate dormant memories, alleviate agitation, boost mood, and foster a sense of accomplishment.
Benefits Of Art Therapy
- Participating in art projects can help residents focus on a task, which in turn helps them reduce feelings of anxiety and agitation.
- Art, as a non-verbal method of expressing emotions, helps an individual with self-expression and communication.
- Art exercises work well in stimulating memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, which help residents maintain their mental abilities.
- Completing an art project, even a simple one, can provide the resident with a sense of pride and accomplishment that boosts their self-esteem.
- By encouraging engagement, self-expression, and social interaction, art therapy has a profound impact on enhancing the quality of life for residents.
What Is Reminiscence Therapy In Memory Care?
It’s another therapeutic modality that focuses on utilizing memories and experiences to enhance the well-being of residents with memory impairments. It involves engaging the residents’ senses and facilitating discussions regarding their’ past events and experiences using visual aids like photos and music. By promoting these reflections, the community aims to help residents recall memories, foster connections, alleviate anxiety, and enhance their overall mood.
Benefits Of Reminiscence Therapy
- By being connected with positive past experiences, residents can feel more calm and secure.
- Reminiscing about positive memories can evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia, and contentment.
- Sharing personal stories and reminiscing can help individuals maintain a sense of self and purpose, which is often missing in those with memory impairments.
- Taking part in reminiscence therapy can help those with memory issues build new social connections and reduce feelings of isolation.
In Conclusion
Those with memory or cognitive issues are bound to face special challenges daily. They may struggle with day-to-day functioning and, therefore, require both care and emotional support. Music, art, and reminiscence therapies prove advantageous to them as these therapeutic modalities support their overall quality of life while providing them with a new sense of purpose. For those seeking a reliable memory care community, you can contact us at Oakleigh Macomb. Led by a team of seasoned care professionals, we are committed to supporting your loved one and providing personalized care tailored to their unique needs and preferences.
