The ability of music to reach and activate the brain, even when other cognitive functions are severely impaired, is truly remarkable. This phenomenon can be explained by the fact that musical memory is processed in different parts of the brain, including areas that remain intact for a surprisingly long time in dementia. Consequently, people who can barely speak due to aphasia can often still sing along to a familiar song with ease. In this sense, music acts as a direct gateway; it not only activates the brain but also provides a powerful key to long-forgotten autobiographical memories from childhood or important moments in life.
In addition to cognitive stimulation, music evokes deep emotional and physical responses, making it an excellent therapeutic tool. Listening to favorite music stimulates the production of substances such as dopamine (the happiness hormone), leading to an immediate improvement in mood and alertness. Due to its calming effect, music is often more effective than medication in addressing behavioral problems, such as reducing anxiety, restlessness, and aggression.
To maximize the positive effects of music, personalization is the key to success. The most effective music is usually songs from the period when the person was 15 to 25 years old, the time when musical preferences are typically strongly formed. It is therefore important to compile personal playlists that reflect the person’s life story and can be used at different times of the day; for example, calm music during care and cheerful sing-alongs to stimulate activity during the day.
Apple Music is fully integrated into the Maziance clock. You can link your loved one’s favorite music to events, place it in the calendar, or play it at any time.
And when music is playing on the clock, you can see this on the remote control.
Apple and Apple Music are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
