Therapeutic Music Listening Programs vs. Music Therapy: Understanding the Difference in Benefits
"It's not just about listening to music; it's about connecting, engaging, and healing through the power of music in a broader spectrum of ways."
In recent years, new technologies have emerged that offer "therapeutic music listening" as a way to support individuals with dementia and their caregivers. These technologies often provide prescribed recorded music, tailored to the individual’s preferences and designed to evoke positive memories and emotions. While these tools can be beneficial in a variety of ways (decreased caregiver stress, improved mood, etc.), there is a distinct difference between using such technology with recorded music and working closely with a trained music therapist.
Though I find I use this not-so-perfect analogy so often, I feel it is useful discussing this topic as well - the difference between personalized, recorded music programs and participating in Music Therapy is akin to the difference between watching a personalized Physical Therapy exercise video and working in person with a Physical Therapist. There are certainly benefits to both!
The Role of Therapeutic Music Listening
Therapeutic music listening involves using recorded music to elicit emotional responses and enhance well-being. These technologies are typically designed to be user-friendly, making them accessible for caregivers and family members. They can help to reduce agitation, improve mood, and provide a sense of familiarity and comfort for individuals with dementia.
The Benefits of Working with a Trained Music Therapist
While therapeutic music listening has its place, the benefits of working with a trained music therapist go far beyond what recorded music can offer. Here are some key distinctions:
Flexibility and Adaptability: A music therapist can adapt sessions in real-time based on the individual’s responses. They can change the music, tempo, and activities to meet the immediate needs and preferences of the person with dementia.
Active Participation: Music therapy sessions encourage active participation. This can include singing, playing instruments, and engaging in rhythm activities, and even working together to create new music, which can be more stimulating and supportive than passive listening in certain cases.
Verbal Processing: Music therapists are trained to facilitate verbal processing. They can help individuals express their feelings and memories through music, providing an outlet for communication that might be difficult to achieve otherwise.
Personalized Goals: Music therapists work with clients to set and achieve personalized therapeutic goals. Whether it’s improving cognitive function, enhancing motor skills, or reducing anxiety, each music therapy session is tailored to the individual’s unique needs (and can often change in the moment based on a client’s state).
Emotional Support: A music therapist provides emotional support and can help navigate the complex emotions that come with dementia. They offer a human connection and professional expertise that technology alone cannot provide.
Conclusion
While therapeutic music listening technologies can be a valuable tool for caregivers, they should not replace or be confused with the personalized, flexible, and interactive approach of working with a trained music therapist. The human touch, adaptability, and deeper engagement offered by a music therapist bring additional layers of benefit, making a significant difference in the lives of individuals with dementia.
I highly recommend therapeutic music listening technology, as it can be an accessible and useful tool. However, working closely with a Music Therapist will offer different benefits.
If you or a loved one is living with dementia, consider the profound impact that music therapy can offer. It's not just about listening to music; it's about connecting, engaging, and healing through the power of music in a broader spectrum of ways.
