Mother and son could still communicate through music. It affects memory, concentration, speech, and physical coordination. It is important for a music therapist to know the areas that need to be dealt with concerning an Alzheimer s patient and to also remember that the family is part of these areas. It can be used for senile dementia. A forgotten song can stir up emotions when played to the elderly.
Music is a useful way of depicting the passage of time.
A great activity to target of these areas would be singing old familiar songs or having the patient accompany the therapist using a simple instrument while a song is being played. This accompaniment could be done with chimes, rhythm instruments, or any instrument that can be set up so that the client s only choices of available notes will be harmonically correct. This activity may also include the family.