Music and Memory

Jul 11, 2017

Memory ...is the Diary We All Carry With Us. —Oscar Wilde

When's the last time you listened to a song, and it instantly took you back in time? Hymns, concerts, favorite TV theme songs can all instantly engage our hearts and transport us. Thanks to Music & Memory, the power of music to inspire, move, and connect with listeners has taken a new step.

"I want a new drug!' Huey Lewis and the News

Using customized playlists, music engages those struggling with dementia, memory loss, and other cognitive impairments. Music & Memory offers a tool that has reduced pharmaceuticals, no risk of "over-dosing," and available without a prescription! The therapeutic benefits of music provides a critical help for not only patients, but can provide a welcomed respite for exasperated caregiver.

"It's very individualized and person-centered," shares Deborah Ferris, Regional Director, Southeastern US. Appearing on my show recently, Deb explained that, "...each individual has a music fingerprint; no two are alike." In addition, she added why Music & Memory is so effective. "It's because it's about not only identifying which song, but also which artists. It has to be artist specific—just the way we all like to hear our music."

Deborah Ferris' passion for program is personal. Her own mother’s reaction to personalized music over the course of her sixteen-year Alzheimer’s journey, fuels Deborah's drive. Deborah knows first-hand what it’s like to run out of ideas and hope for any way to truly enhance someone’s quality of life. Family and caregivers are so often in need of respite and a way to create new and joyful memories. A collection of music that holds personal meaning for an individual can open up a world of benefits that are beyond imagination for everyone.

Bringing a powerful testimonial, Music & Memory client, Steve McGee shared the impact on his father. Growing emotional, Steve relayed personally watching his father regain memory through using this innovative tool.

After being as skeptical as I was, it's just amazing how music can benefit the families and loved ones with Alzheimer's and dementia. Steve McGee, client

Sundowning, preparing for meals, getting calmed in order to go to bed, represent just a few of the scenarios this program helps. As a pianist for nearly fifty years, I understand the power music to heal, inspire, and uplift. In addition to all that, the power of music now has a strategic use for those who may often seem unreachable. For more information, visit MusicandMemory.org

 

Peter Rosenberger, a thirty-year caregiver, is the author of Hope for the Caregiver.  In addition, Peter hosts a weekly radio show for caregivers on 1510 WLAC, Broadcast Sunday's at 3 PM CST.  Furthermore, the program is streamed through IHEART, and the Podcast can be accessed here.e president of Standing With Hope.  

The non-profit ministry has two program areas:  a prosthetic limb outreach to amputees in West Africa, and an outreach to family caregivers.

In addition to his books, Peter also recently release his new CD, SONGS FOR THE CAREGIVER.  

Click for Books and Music from Peter Rosenberger