Melinda Yao

How does music drive neuroplasticity and how can it help patients with Alzheimer’s disease?

Started Aug. 31, 2022

Abstract or project description

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized primarily by impaired episodic memory, as well as decreased cognitive functioning, emotional control, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Musical memory networks are separate from other memory systems and are generally spared from the neurodegeneration caused by Alzheimer’s. As such, music intervention therapies are becoming an increasingly researched method of non-pharmaceutical treatment. It aims to evoke positive emotions, promote relaxation, and improve verbal fluency. Music induces neuroplasticity, or the structural changes in the brain, formation of synapses, axonal sprouting, and myelination of nerve fibers.