Music has a way of staying with us. A familiar tune can bring back a memory, stir an emotion, or connect us to a time or place all but forgotten. For individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, these moments of recognition can provide comfort, spark joy, or create an opening for connection.
At Buckner Retirement Communities music plays a meaningful role in daily life. Whether it’s the rhythm of a drum or a favorite childhood song, music often reaches people in ways that words alone can’t.
Why Music Matters in Dementia Care
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, music can help reduce agitation, ease anxiety, and promote a greater sense of calm for those living with dementia. It can also encourage interaction—between residents, caregivers, and family members—and support emotional well-being.
Geriatrician Dr. David Reuben, in an article from the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, explains:
“Music engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. Even when areas related to language and memory are damaged, people with dementia can still tap into the parts of the brain that respond to rhythm, melody, and emotion.”
In short, music often becomes a reliable bridge when other forms of communication become more difficult.
The Everyday Impact of Music Therapy
At Buckner Retirement Communities you might hear someone softly singing along to an old hymn, tapping a hand to a familiar beat, or smiling as a beloved childhood melody fills the room. These small reactions often carry big meaning. Music helps regulate mood, support daily routines, and bring a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Residents engage in music in a variety of ways—through live performances, singalongs, curated playlists, and rhythm-based group activities. These are all part of a thoughtful, person-centered approach to care that recognizes each individual’s story and preferences.
Supporting Connection Through Sound
While music therapy doesn’t cure dementia, it can help restore a sense of joy, reduce isolation, and offer moments of clarity and connection. It can also bring comfort to families, offering a way to share something meaningful even when communication becomes more limited.
Curious how music and memory care go hand in hand at Buckner Retirement Communities?
Contact our team to learn more or schedule a visit. We’d love to show you how our approach supports the people—and moments—that matter most.