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According to MentalFloss.com, music can actually flood our brains with dopamine, the chemical that regulates emotional responses and pleasurable experiences. Specifically, it triggers the part of the brain that is activated by motivation and reward. One side effect of dopamine is goosebumps. A person may get all tingly and chilled when listening to certain kinds of music or specific songs. But more than that, there can be actual physical benefits to doing certain activities to music.
\nFor example, studies have shown that when the elderly listen to music while exercising it helps them better maintain their balance and they realize a reduction in their risk of falling. As a family caregiver, you should know that that is a huge benefit in and of itself.<\/p>\n
Studies have shown that the threat falls pose to our nation\u2019s elderly is huge, with at least 33 percent of adults over the age of 65 suffering a fall at least once per year. Yet, a Swedish study that compared seniors exercising to piano music compared with seniors who didn\u2019t, showed the group listening to music improved their balance when walking and had approximately half the falls the other group did.<\/p>\n
Still other studies through the years have shown that music provides many psychological benefits, as well, including: A happier outlook on life; better social interaction; enhanced moods and improved interest levels; increased positive emotions and self-esteem; increased communication in Alzheimer\u2019s and other dementia patients; reduced tension and anxiety; and music encouraged self-expression and more discovery of personal identity.<\/p>\n
Those who listen regularly to music can also find they experience: Better sleep at night; diminished pain which leads to a decreased need for medication; improved memory and recall; improved recovery time after illness or surgery; increased awareness and ability to concentrate; increased overall cognitive abilities; and increased mobility and greater coordination.
\nBecause of all the wonderful things music can do, music therapy is becoming more popular in some places around the country.<\/p>\n
But, as a family caregiver, you can do your own kind of music therapy. If your loved one plays an instrument, encourage them to play it for you, or if they did play, but have stopped, encourage them to begin playing again. If you sign or play an instrument, this would be a wonderful thing to do together. You can also just sing some songs together by playing some old records, if your loved one has any, or watching videos of some of their favorite music on You Tube or other similar site, and singing along with the music.<\/p>\n
Source: www.mentalfloss.com<\/p>\n