The Power of Music

by Joyce Remy

Music can soothe a baby, rally an army, unite a country, slow down a grocery shopper, or speed up a worker in a mid-morning slump. Music enhances celebrations, rituals and special occasions. And music also has a therapeutic effect.

Studies have shown detectable brain changes when a person is listening to music. Music influences brain waves, blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and muscle tone. Music can be of benefit for older adults in many ways, and in many important areas. For example....

Music has a positive effect on the perception of pain. Listening to music that a person enjoys can actually raise the level of endorphins (brain chemicals linked with a feeling of well-being).

Music has the capacity to reach hidden brain areas. It is stored differently in the brain than are speech and memory. Indeed, people with Alzheimer's or other dementias who have diminished ability to speak may still be able to sing.

Music serves as a storehouse for memories. Visual images, thoughts and vivid recollections can all be encoded in the mind by music, making it a powerful trigger for reminiscence.

For persons with visual impairment, music provides another way of staying in touch with the world.

Music supports activity. What's more fun, calisthenics or dancing? With the addition of music, movements become a pleasure rather than a chore.

Music brings people together. People who "co-experience" the same rhythms, moods and harmonies have similar neurological responses, resulting in a togetherness which is familiar to concertgoers or religious congregations.

Music can have positive emotional effects. It can uplift the spirit. It can calm or energize. And the therapeutic use of music has been shown to be effective in reducing depression.

Music provides intellectual stimulation. Reacting to music in one's own way is a good form of mental exercise.