How It Works
Our brains are hard-wired to connect music with long-term memory. Even for persons with severe dementia, music can tap deep emotional recall.
Who We Are
Located in the heart of Western Massachusetts, the Alzheimer’s Music Project’s mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia by providing a compact, wireless mp3 headset, and a personalized music playlist of their most beloved songs and artists. Research has shown that familiar and beloved music helps to calm chaotic brain activity in people with Alzheimer’s and they’re more able to focus on the present moment and regain a sense of his/her connection to others.
The Science
"When I’ve worked with people with Alzheimers and various forms of dementia, some of them are confused, some are agitated, some lethargic, some have lost language. But all of them, without exception, respond to music."
- Dr. Oliver Sacks MD, noted neurologist and best-selling author of Musicophilia