Saturday, May 17, 2008

Music makes a Difference

Music therapy can temporarily bring dementia and Alzheimer's patients back to reality and help them relate to their families. It may even reduce their need for medication.

Often, patients who have lost verbal ability still can sing or make music. Music therapists are trained musicians who create live music with patients. Drum circles are one way music therapists restart the communication process for alzheimer's patients, who may beat to their own rhythm at first but eventually get in sync with each other.

There are many colleges teaching music therapy, and these therapists are board ceritifed. For more info about music therapy, contact: American Music Therapy Association at 301-589-3300 or visit www.musictherapy.org

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