A new study by Glasgow researchers will try to find out why the sound of music helps dementia sufferers.
Studies have shown the part of the brain that processes music is not affected by dementia, with sufferers able to recall songs and music from their youth.
Now a team from the city’s Polyphony project, which works with patients with mental health problems, wants to broaden its research after initial studies showed sessions led to improvements in cognitive functioning, communication and mood.
The charity is looking for funding to carry out a bigger study in Glasgow to prove music therapy can have long-term benefits for dementia sufferers.
Continuing research analysed by clinicians at Glasgow Caledonian University showed patients experience reduced feelings of isolation, improved confidence and self image.
Fiona Sinclair, general manager of mental health charity Commonwheel, which runs the Polyphony project, said: “The biggest thing we have noticed has been an improvement in communication skills and confidence amongst people wo are experiencing dementia.
“The part of the brain that manages music is not affected by dementia.
“It means patients can remember songs and music very clearly. Music is a very powerful tool.”
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who is also Scottish Health Minister, visited Gartnavel Hospital to chat to patients who have benefited from the Polyphony project.
It was set up five years ago by Julie DeSimone and Dr Alistair Wilson and is funded by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
Patients in the adult and acute wards take part in one-to-one and group workshops where they sing, listen to music, compose, play instruments and perform.
Commonwheel also works with dementia patients and their families in the hospital’s early Alzheimer’s assessment ward.
Staff reported patients not able to communicate verbally were able, “through music to find a way to share something again”.
Clinical music therapy in the UK was pioneered in the 1960s and 70s by French cellist Juliette Alvin.
Music is known to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and reduce tension in muscles.
It has also been shown to improve language and motor skills and increase tolerance to pain.
Live music was used in hospitals after both world wars as part of the regime for recovering soldiers.
