Music can bring back memories according to a Nov. 17 article in the Wall St. Journal and that is good news for those dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or another related form of memory loss. According to the article: “caregivers have observed how Alzheimer’s patients can still remember and sing songs long after they’ve stopped recognizing names and faces.”
“Music therapy is an important component of the Early Memory Loss Program — WISE Minds — at the WISE Adult Day Service Center,” said Monica Moore, director of programming at WISE. “It can help stimulate the brain and slow down memory loss.” “While music may not improve memory or reverse the disease, it can help with retrieving old memories and lift a patient’s mood and sense of wellbeing,” Moore emphasized.
Along with music therapy, the WISE Adult Day Service Center provides cognitive exercises, physical exercise and support groups in a safe, calm and inviting setting. The Center provides clients with stimulating activities and a much needed respite for caregivers. Attendees are provided with snacks and a nutritious lunch at no additional cost. Various levels of care are provided to accommodate the needs of the client. Trained staff works with clients having early, moderate or severe levels of dementia, including those with canes or walkers and incontinent clients. The Alzheimer’s Association has recognized Center staff for its excellence in care.
WISE Minds will resume in January at the WISE Adult Day Service Center for people who have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia. WISE Minds is specifically geared toward helping people retain their cognitive ability for as long as possible and to provide support for the person with memory loss and their caregiver. The new program also provides guest speakers, physical exercise, and cognitive stimulation people in the early stages of memory loss.
For more than 20 years, the WISE Adult Day Service Center has been there to help. Located at 1510 Pico Blvd. in Santa Monica, the Center is open 11 hours a day (7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.), Monday through Friday, so that caregivers can go to work or take a much needed break knowing that their loved one is enjoying the day in a safe, caring and stimulating environment. Try a free sample day to decide if this is right for you and your loved one by calling (310) 452-7802.
