Music Moments: An Initiative by the Alzheimer’s Association for Managing Alzheimer’s Disease

The Alzheimer’s Association has launched Music Moments, a collection of recordings and unreleased tracks by award-winning artists with the purpose of fighting Alzheimer’s.

These artists honor the personal and emotional connection between music and the most important moments of life that we never want to lose to Alzheimer’s and all other dementias. Music Moments is available on all major streaming platforms.

Music Moments is a collection of powerful performances and heartfelt narratives created to advocate for a world without Alzheimer’s. It is available in two parts: a compilation album and a behind-the-scenes video series.

This unprecedented project highlights how music marks the most important moments and people in our lives, while also raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and engaging the public in conversations to advance the cause.

Music Moments: Connecting Music and Memory

Luis Fonsi, one of the most prominent Latin music artists, has touched the hearts of millions with hits like “Despacito,” which broke records and remains one of the most viewed videos in YouTube history.

Besides his musical talent, Fonsi is known for his philanthropic and humanitarian work. For Fonsi, music has always been a vehicle of unity and love.

He fondly remembers times when his family played music together in Puerto Rico, performing musical routines of the bachata-merengue group Juan Luis Guerra y 440 with his father and siblings.

According to Fonsi:
“Music has that power of transporting us to that place that we all need to go every once in a while.”

This sentiment is channeled into his song “Girasoles,” which is part of the Music Moments project. Fonsi hopes that “Girasoles” will resonate with those who suffer from Alzheimer’s, caregivers, and loved ones, providing them with love, encouragement, and light.

Watch Luis Fonsi share his Music Moment: Luis Fonsi – Music Moments

Benefits of Music for People with Alzheimer’s

Music has profound and positive effects on people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Numerous studies have shown that music can:

Evoking Memories and Emotions:

Music has the unique power to activate memories, even in the advanced stages of the disease. Meaningful songs from any age can bring back clear memories and associated emotions, providing moments of reconnection with the past.

Improving Mood and Reducing Anxiety:

Soothing music can decrease agitation and stress. Joyful songs can improve mood and promote feelings of happiness.

Encouraging Social Interaction:

Listening to and participating in musical activities promote interaction with others, enhancing emotional and mental health.

Cognitive Stimulation:

Playing instruments or singing serves as a form of cognitive stimulation, helping to maintain mental skills and providing a sense of accomplishment.

The Role of the Caregiver

Caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s play a crucial role in the daily management of the disease. Incorporating music into daily routines can be a powerful tool for caregivers. Here are some tips:

Create Personalized Playlists:

Selecting songs that are meaningful and enjoyable for the person with Alzheimer’s can enhance the positive effects of music.

Include Music in Daily Activities:

Using music during daily activities can make these tasks more enjoyable and less stressful.

Use Music for Transitions:

Familiar songs can help calm the person during difficult transitions, such as moving from one place to another or getting ready for bed.

Managing the Disease

Managing Alzheimer’s is a constant challenge for both patients and caregivers.

However, it is crucial to have the right support and use all available tools, including music, to improve quality of life.

Organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association of Massachusetts Chapter offer resources and support for those affected by the disease. Through programs and services, they aim to educate and support families, providing them with the necessary tools to handle the daily challenges of dementia.

For more information and resources, visit the Alzheimer’s Association booth.