Feb 01 2009
The magic of music and dementia(part 2)
In the last post we were discussing ways to gage whether a person with late stage Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia is affected by the music being offered.
It is our hope is that these people will eventually sing some or all of the words to a familiar song.
What are ways to ensure that you are getting these dementia people’s maximum attention. There is no guarantee, but theses things may help
Address the person by name
Gently squeeze the person’s hand as you address him/her
Make sure to make eye contact
Gently rub his shoulder or back
Speak directly into the person’s ear(most helpful if the dementia person is hard of hearing)
Tomorrow is Ground Hogs Day. We will dicuss how the Ground Hog Day activities went and of course the winner of the Super Bowl
More music information to come
Make sure to visit my sister site What do you think of it’s new look?
Whether a late stage Alzheimers patient can relate to music, speach or other sounds you offer, is at some point irrelevant. It is your kind hearted and expert intention that he/she recognizes on some level. Thanks again for the great work you do.
Karen