What Makes a Song Memorable?
Music has many qualities which when placed in the right combination can almost force our brains to remember. The basic elements of music, rhythm and melody when linked to lyrics can create a lasting memory, which can be triggered by something we see or smell, an event, a conversation, or even a single word. Also, certain chord and note progressions have the power to evoke emotions, which may enable us to create a more lasting impression of a song.
Studies conducted recently at Dartmouth University have shown that even when the music stops the brain keeps hearing. Scientists played familiar songs for participants in a study who were hooked up to an MRI scanner, which displayed activity in the auditory cortex of the brain. When the scientists stopped the music for a moment the activity was still displayed, the brain kept listening to the song, even though there was no sound coming into the ears. Scientists describe this phenomenon as a “cognitive itch” which needs to be “scratched” by hearing the familiar song. How do these songs evoke such strong recall?
Familiarity – First we have the context in which we first heard the song. Songs from our formative years are the easiest for us to remember. They get imprinted in our brains.
Repetition - As we hear songs over and over again they almost become impossible not to remember. We have all experienced the advertising jingle or TV theme that sticks with us, often playing in our heads at will. Also, rhythmic structure creates a repetitive order and pulse to a song. When we bob our heads or sway to the rhythm we are reinforcing the power of repetition.
Similarity – Many of the songs, which have this memorable quality, contain a similar melodic structure. Most of the melodies in the songs are composed in the same way. Usually these songs are comprised of two or three verses and a chorus, which repeats after every verse. The chorus is usually the catchiest part of the song and creates a “hook” which we remember. Additionally, as we remember the “hook” this stimulates the brain to recall the verses.
Lyrics – When we add words to this melodic and rhythmic structure we create a complete memory. These elements become linked together and are recalled as one. The lyrics become almost like a chant in this way as they repeat over and over in our brains they form a lasting impression.
According to the National Alzheimer's Association over 50% of residents in assisted living and nursing homes have some form of Dementia and that number is increasing everyday.
Music fits all the criteria for a Meaningful Activity for those who suffer with Dementia. In addition the following benefits occur when music is employed:
* All Levels of Functioning Can Participate
* Physical Workout
* Cognitive Workout
* Stimulates Memory
* Organizes the Brain
* Cost Effective
* Encourages Meaningful Social Interaction
* Easily Replicated and Implemented
Our programs will train all caregivers to harness the Power of Music.
Because of the number of people who will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in the coming years, it is imperative that we do all we can to slow the onset of this devastating disease. About 22.4 million households, nearly one in four, provide care to an elderly relative or friend 50 or older according to the National Alliance for Caregiving and the AARP. By 2030 the number of Americans over 50 will increase to over 70 million, double the number in 2000, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. A cure for Alzheimer’s hopefully is waiting in the future, in the meantime something must be done to forestall or possibly prevent it’s development.
Prescription Music has developed a program which adheres to Social Engagement and Meaningful Activities Guidelines as outlined in:
Dementia Care Practice Recommendations for Assisted Living Residences and Nursing Homes, a publication of the National Alzheimer’s Association (Full text available at www.alz.org)