A few years ago, I went to a screening of the movie, Alive Inside, hosted by one of our sister ComForCare offices. It is a documentary film that explores the positive impact that music can have for people suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s.

The subjects in the film are literally brought to life, and become more animated by listening to familiar tunes, chiefly from their youth. The film is inspirational, and I would highly recommend it. Music activates the brains of those with neurological impairment. Language and memories may be lost, but music is still there. And, it can evoke a range of memories and emotions—energizing, soothing, calming, happiness. It is genuinely touching to see the people in the film experience joy, and the powerful memories associated with music of their younger years.

Toronto organizations that specialize in cognitive impairment use music with their dementia clients. For example, it is part of the day program at Baycrest. This program is excellent for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Retirement communities that offer Memory Care also use music therapy as part of their daily activities with their residents. It helps the community to socialize. And residents have fun at the sing-along. We work with individual families to develop suitable playlists enjoyed by the client. And our caregivers have a component of their time with the client dedicated to music therapy.

When developing a playlist, it is important to use music that is familiar to the client. Familiar music is predictable and thus reassuring, and comforting. My mom was born in 1930, and she liked songs like Tennessee Waltz (released 1948 when she was 18 years), and This Is My Beloved (released 1961, when she was 31 years). Research has shown that a person tends to breathe deeper listening to music he or she likes. Of course, what one person finds relaxing or pleasurable the other person may not like at all. Musical taste is very individualistic. So, it is important to determine the client’s taste in music—classical, country, rock and roll, and so on.

The Alzheimer’s Society (www.alz.to) has some excellent resources for music therapy. As does the Music Therapy Centre (www.musictherapyfund.ca), on Bloor in Toronto.

Craig Fossay, Owner ComForCare North York