What If Music Was the Best Medicine for Dementia?

Have you ever considered using music proactively as a tool for supporting those living with dementia? What if we thought of music as a “prescription” – a purposeful, non-pharmacologic approach to ease distress and enhance well-being?

We often see music used in dementia care, but what if we shifted our mindset from using it reactively—after distress occurs—to incorporating it as an intentional part of daily routines? Research continues to highlight the profound effects of music on the brain, particularly for individuals living with dementia. Personalized music playlists can reduce the distress of an unmet need, promote connection, and even awaken long-dormant memories.

The Science Behind Music and the Dementia Brain

Music has a unique way of reaching the brain, even as dementia progresses. Unlike language, which relies on specific areas of the brain, music activates multiple regions, including those responsible for emotion, memory, and movement. Studies using brain imaging show that familiar, emotionally significant music stimulates neural activity and can even help reconnect individuals with their past.

A well-known example of this is Henry’s story from the Music & Memory program (watch here). Henry, a man who had been largely unresponsive, came alive when he heard music from his past. He sang, moved, and even engaged in conversation after listening to his personalized playlist. This is not an isolated case—countless individuals with dementia have demonstrated renewed awareness and emotional connection when hearing familiar songs.

Music is also linked to the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter that enhances mood and motivation. A study published in The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease found that music therapy significantly reduced anxiety and agitation in individuals with dementia, improving their overall quality of life.

Why Personalization Matters

Not everyone enjoys the same genre of music. While classical or instrumental music may be soothing for some, others may respond more to jazz, gospel, or rock. The key to using music effectively in dementia care is personalization.

Naomi Feil’s moving interaction with a woman living with dementia—who had been unresponsive until she began singing Jesus Loves Me—is a powerful example of the deep connection between memory, music, and emotion

(watch here).

By creating a playlist that resonates with an individual’s history and preferences, we can create meaningful moments of joy and connection.

Using Music Proactively Throughout the Day

To maximize the benefits of music in dementia care, we should consider how different types of music can be used intentionally at various times:

• Morning: Upbeat music with lyrics

  • It helps with waking up, getting dressed, and setting a positive tone for the day.

  • Songs with familiar lyrics encourage engagement, singing along, and movement.

  • Examples: Classic rock, gospel, Motown, or favorite tunes from early adulthood.

• Afternoon: Music without lyrics

  • Instrumental music can provide a sense of calm, helping to reduce overstimulation and fatigue.

  • Classical, nature sounds, or jazz can create a peaceful environment without adding too much cognitive demand.

  • This is particularly useful during the post-lunch lull or times when rest is needed.

• Evening: Calming music

  • Slow-tempo, soothing music can help signal to the brain that it’s time to unwind.

  • Soft piano, string instruments, or lullabies can promote relaxation and reduce sundowning behaviors.

  • Familiar hymns or folk melodies can also provide comfort in the evening.

    
    

By integrating music purposefully throughout the day, we can help regulate mood, encourage movement, and provide emotional comfort—all without medication.

Meeting Needs with Music Before Medication

Instead of reaching for medication first when distress arises, what if we tried music? Whether it's restlessness in the late afternoon, resistance to personal care, or difficulty falling asleep, music can offer a gentle, effective alternative.

There is growing evidence that music therapy can decrease the use of antipsychotic and anxiety medications in dementia care. A study published in Frontiers in Medicine found that personalized music interventions significantly reduced agitation and improved emotional well-being. Rather than using music as a last resort, let’s make it a core part of dementia care strategies.

Bringing the Power of Music into Everyday Care

Music is not just entertainment—it is a powerful intervention that enhances quality of life. Care partners, families, and healthcare providers: consider creating personalized music playlists for your loved ones and those in your care.

Start with favorite songs from their younger years, observe their reactions, and adjust accordingly. The impact can be profound. Before turning to medication, let’s turn to music.

If you need guidance on incorporating music into dementia care, I’d love to help.

Looking for support? Reach out. Let’s navigate this together. Together, we can create meaningful moments, promote well-being, and rethink how we support those on the dementia journey.

References

• Raglio, A., Bellandi, D., Baiardi, P., Gianotti, M., Ubezio, M. C., Zanacchi, E., & Granieri, E. (2020). Music therapy in moderate to severe dementia: A randomized controlled study on behavior, emotion, and physiological changes. Frontiers in Medicine, 7, 160. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmed.2020.00160

• Arroyo-Anlló, E. M., Díaz-Morán, M., & Romero-Moreno, R. (2021). The impact of music therapy on cognitive functions in patients with mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review. The Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease, 8(1), 41-49. https://doi.org/10.14283/jpad.2021.3