HEALING Harmonies C
an the power of music enhance your wellbeing and memory as you age? Most people can name at least one artist or song that evokes an emotional response, reminding them of a significant moment in their life. Our response to music is often visceral, so you may have a physical or emotional response before you understand what memory it triggers. However, is this effect helpful to our cognitive and physical wellbeing? The answer is a resounding yes.
E ssence
42 | PENINSULA
March 2020
When US social worker, Dan Cohen, brought his captivating initiative to Australia’s Arts Health Institute, he worked with patients with chronic cognitive and physical impairment with outstanding results. In some cases, patients with dementia responded to personalised music playlists through singing and movement, creating brief moments of reconnection with loved ones. The music awakens part of the brain not impacted by dementia and can even cause positive changes in mood lasting several hours.