Newswise — Alzheimer’s disease, a deadly brain disease than can cause loss of memory and mobility, affects millions of lives daily. Nearly 7 million Americans have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and about 11 million in the U.S.
act as caregivers for people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. June marks Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, and June 20, the summer solstice, will see a nationwide fundraising effort to counter Alzheimer’s and similar diseases, known as The Longest Day. Virginia Tech researchers are engaged in research meant to advance treatment for Alzheimer’s disease and assist caregivers of loved ones with dementia.
The power of music “Music is so powerful, it overrides so many things,” said Jo Culligan , an instructor with the Department of Human Development and Family Science in the Virginia Tech College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences. Culligan has explored the benefits of music therapy for dementia patients and their caregivers. A study that surveyed caregivers and their charges through a series of weekly community choir rehearsals showed that listening to music and singing boosted the well-being of choir participants.
At the beginning of rehearsals, some caregivers and people with dementia reported having negative feelings. But as time progressed, “they were getting into the routine and people were more happy once they arrived. We saw big changes,” Culligan said “Where your musical memory is stored is an area t.
