Slower and moderate tempos are preferable. Live and recorded accompaniments are preferred over synthesized music. Aronson, Miriam K. Understanding Alzheimer's Disease. The Alzheimer's process affects specific nerve cells, the basal cholinergic projection system. This system holds an enzyme that enables cells to form acetycholine, a chemical that is used to transmit signals to other cells.
Evidence also shows that AD is linked with destruction of the neural system.
Refer to Dr. Dale Taylor's book, Biomedical Foundations of Music as Therapy, for an explanation of the connection between music and physiological changes. This site discusses using music to find new ways to reach your confused relatives. Music can serve as a link between the relative and you. It may also reduce pain, loneliness, and depression. Through the use of therapeutic music, you can connect with your relative in a way that does not require cognitive skills or rational thought.