Speakers -WMC 2024

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Age-related changes in the neurophysiology of music recognition

Associate Professor Leonardo Bonetti

Abstract

The ability to predict and process auditory sequences, particularly in relation to music, provides a valuable lens for understanding cognitive function across the lifespan. Through a series of investigations ranging from young, healthy individuals to those experiencing healthy aging, we have gained critical insights into how these processes evolve with age. Our research highlights the complex interplay between sensory processing, memory, and predictive coding, focusing on the neural mechanisms that underpin these functions.

In younger adults, the recognition and prediction of musical sequences engage a well- organized, hierarchical brain network. This network integrates both sensory and higher-order brain regions, including the auditory cortex, hippocampus, and cingulate gyri, which work in unison to generate accurate predictions about familiar auditory patterns. When these predictions align with incoming sensory data, the brain exhibits positive responses, ensuring seamless auditory processing. 

However, when predictions fail, the brain swiftly adapts with negative, rapid responses, demonstrating its flexibility in handling unexpected changes.

As we age, these neural dynamics undergo significant transformations. While older adults can still recognize familiar musical sequences, their neural responses show substantial reorganization. There is an increased reliance on early sensory processing, evidenced by heightened activity in the auditory cortex.

 At the same time, higher-order brain regions, particularly those involved in memory and decision-making, show reduced engagement.

These changes suggest compensatory mechanisms where older adults rely more heavily on basic sensory processing to offset declines in predictive coding and higher-order functions.

Notably, this shift may help maintain performance in familiar auditory tasks, even as the ability to process novel sequences declines.

The findings from these studies have broad implications for understanding the aging brain.

They underscore the importance of distinguishing between behavioural performance and the underlying neural mechanisms, which can offer a more nuanced view of cognitive aging.

Even when older adults perform similarly to younger individuals in specific tasks, their brain activity reveals a different story, providing a window into the subtle neural changes associated with aging.

 Looking ahead, this research offers promising directions for studying conditions such as dementia. By applying our methodology to individuals at risk for neurodegenerative diseases, we aim to uncover early neural markers that differentiate healthy aging from pathological conditions. 

These insights could lead to earlier detection and intervention strategies, ultimately contributing to better outcomes for aging populations. The future of this research holds the potential to inform clinical practices and enhance our understanding of auditory memory and predictive processing across the spectrum of healthy aging and cognitive decline.

In this keynote, I will explore these findings in greater detail, addressing both the immediate implication 

For more information about the speaker- please visit- https://www.leonardobonetti.org/

Abstract 

 A  nutritionist and researcher in neuroscience, music and nutrition. As a health professional and music lover, I've always believed in the power of music to heal and/or promote well-being and quality of life. This has led me to search for studies and to learn about scientific evidence that would enable me to support the practical applicability to my patients. In our meeting, we will be discussing this interface between science and everyday practice, the use of music and its benefits for brain health, especially its positive impact on cognition and affective memory in patients with Alzheimer's disease. After all, why is it that there are dementia patients who may forget facts about their own lives, but are able to sing childhood songs by heart? Researchers who assessed the recognition of emotions in faces and music by Alzheimer's patients showed that the patients only lost the ability to recognise emotions in faces, but retained the ability to recognise emotions in voices and music. A better understanding of the structures involved in evoking emotions and memory through music could make a major contribution to the treatment of Alzheimer's patients. This very important theme proposed by the Annual World Music Conference will allow us the space to explore the understanding of this process and bring important contributions to the treatment of the disease for a more holistic and humanised care through music. I hope to share some of my experiences, bringing real-life stories and how music has had a positive effect on patients and their families, improving their quality of life. We will also discuss recent advances in neuroscientific research, which have proven the therapeutic properties of music and its future prospects for clinical applicability in the management of emotions, anxiety, depression and stress. At this very special moment in time, I want to share with you some of the results of my research into nutrition and music, which could undoubtedly have an impact on important disease prevention mechanisms in the future.
 

The "Life-Changing" Power of Music in Improving Quality of Lives for People with Dementia

The use of music interventions as a non-pharmacological therapy to improve mood, cognitive functions, and memory, and provide a sense of connection and socialization for people living with dementia has gained popularity in recent years. While studies have shown the potential benefits of music therapy as a complementary treatment option for people living with dementia, the application of music as an intervention tool is limited to active music therapy and receptive music therapy. Active music therapy has participants produce musical sounds through singing, songwriting, playing instruments and improvisation. Receptive music therapy is a guided listening practice. Coming from my previous work experience in disability education and lived experience with dementia, I believe more can be done with musical intervention in supporting people living with dementia to improve their functional receptive communication skills, to manage their auditory sensitivity from external stimuli and to use music elements like tempo and tone in non-verbal communication are rather limited. Therefore, in my presentation, I will be speaking on the untapped opportunities that musical intervention can offer to people living with dementia.

Cultural and Personalized Music Approaches in Alzheimer’s Care: Utilizing Music to Trigger Memory and Emotional Responses

Abstract

This lecture explores the transformative role of culturally relevant and personalized music in Alzheimer’s care, focusing on how tailored music interventions can evoke memory recall, emotional responses, and enhance quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Leveraging years of research at the Brazilian Institute of Neurosciences, we investigate the neuroscience behind music and memory, examining how music activates brain regions associated with emotions and long-term memories. The presentation highlights the importance of culturally familiar music in helping patients reconnect with their identities, as well as the significance of personalization through favorite songs, genres, and family input. Case studies and evidence from successful music programs, such as Music & Memory, illustrate music’s impact on reducing anxiety, agitation, and depression in patients. Practical implementation strategies are outlined, alongside challenges and considerations, including cultural access and caregiver training. Ultimately, this lecture underscores the potential of music as a powerful non-pharmacological tool in Alzheimer’s care, fostering inclusivity, emotional connection, and enhanced patient wellbeing.

Introduction

Hi, everyone. Thank you for being here today. My name is Samuel Quinto, and I have the privilege of combining two deep passions in my work: neuroscience and music. As a neuroscientist and musician, I’ve spent years researching the powerful connections between music and the brain, particularly in relation to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. My work at the Brazilian Institute of Neurosciences in São Paulo, Brazil, has focused on understanding how music can influence brain function and improve the lives of those impacted by these conditions.

Today, I’ll be sharing insights on a topic that I find especially meaningful: the use of culturally relevant and personalized music in Alzheimer’s care. We’ll explore how music can trigger memory recall, evoke emotional responses, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s. This approach offers a unique way to connect with patients, touching parts of their identity and memory that sometimes seem unreachable.

Together, let’s dive into the evidence and practical applications of personalized and culturally resonant music, which is transforming the Alzheimer’s care experience. Here’s an overview of what we’ll cover:

1. Understanding      Alzheimer’s and the Role of Memory in Care
2. The      Neuroscience Behind Music and Memory
3. Cultural      Relevance in Music for Alzheimer’s Patients
4. Personalized Music Approaches
5. Case Studies and Success      Stories
6. Implementing      Music Interventions in Alzheimer’s Care Settings
7. Challenges and Considerations
8. Conclusion:      The Future of Music in Dementia Care

1. Understanding Alzheimer’s and the Role of Memory in Care

• Overview      of Alzheimer’s Disease: Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder      characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behavior.
• Impact      of Memory Loss on Identity and Relationships: As memory deteriorates, it affects a      person’s identity, sense of self, and ability to relate to others.      Preserving positive memories can sustain emotional connections with loved      ones and caregivers.
• Role      of Memory in Enhancing Quality of Life: Maintaining a connection to positive      memories can improve the quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s,      reducing stress, agitation, and feelings of isolation.

2. The Neuroscience Behind Music and Memory

• How      the Brain Processes Music: Music activates multiple areas of the brain, including those      associated with memory, emotions, and movement. Unlike other memories,      musical memories are often retained longer because they engage these      widespread brain networks.
• Music      and Emotional Memory: Music can evoke emotional responses by activating the amygdala,      which processes emotions, and the hippocampus, which is vital for memory.      This dual activation helps rekindle emotional memories, even when other      types of memory may fade.
• Music      Therapy as a Cognitive Tool: Research has shown that music therapy can boost cognitive      function, improve mood, and even enhance verbal abilities in individuals      with Alzheimer’s, as music-based activities often stimulate recall.

3. Cultural Relevance in Music for Alzheimer’s Patients

• Significance      of Cultural Relevance: Music from one’s cultural background often carries personal and      collective memories, traditions, and values. Culturally familiar music can      help individuals reconnect with their personal and cultural identity.
• Triggering      Familiar Associations: For instance, hearing a folk song, lullaby, or holiday tune from      one’s culture can evoke a sense of belonging, stirring memories associated      with family, community events, and other significant life moments.
• Examples      of Cultural Musical Interventions: In Hispanic communities, boleros or      mariachi music might resonate; in an African American context, gospel or      jazz might be impactful. Integrating culturally specific music fosters      inclusivity and emotional resonance in the care process.

4. Personalized Music Approaches

• Why      Personalization Matters: Alzheimer’s patients often respond best to music they are      personally connected to. A song that was significant in someone’s life can      evoke vivid memories, often from decades earlier.
• Techniques for Personalization:
  • Personal       Music History:       Gathering information about a patient’s favorite songs, artists, and       genres.
  • Incorporating       Family Input:       Families often know the music that a loved one cherished, whether it’s a       wedding song, lullabies they sang to their children, or popular songs       from their youth.
  • Creating       Custom Playlists: Based on preferences, caregivers or therapists can create       playlists tailored to each patient, which can be used in therapeutic       settings or simply to provide comfort.
• Examples      of Personalized Music Interventions: The Sound Health Network and programs      like Music & Memory use customized playlists to stimulate recall and      engagement in patients.

5. Case Studies and Success Stories

• Individual      Case Studies:      Stories of Alzheimer’s patients who “come alive” when hearing their      favorite songs highlight the impact of personalized music.
• Program-Based      Evidence:      Initiatives like Music & Memory have shown that tailored music can      reduce anxiety, depression, and agitation in patients, often leading to      reduced reliance on medications.
• Family      and Caregiver Observations: Family members and caregivers frequently report seeing their      loved ones reconnect with their surroundings and themselves through      personalized music interventions.

6. Implementing Music Interventions in Alzheimer’s Care Settings

• Incorporating      Music into Daily Routines: Play music during meals, personal care routines, or quiet      moments, choosing pieces that match the time of day or the desired mood.
• Interactive      Music Sessions:      Encourage group singing, dancing, or rhythmic activities, as these can      stimulate engagement and social interaction.
• Collaborating      with Music Therapists: Certified music therapists can develop structured programs suited      to each patient’s needs, often incorporating live music and guided      reminiscence sessions.
• Using      Technology in Personalized Music Delivery: Tablets, smartphones, and digital music      platforms make it easier to create and modify playlists for each patient.

7. Challenges and Considerations

• Challenges      in Cultural and Personalized Selection:
  • Access       to Cultural Music: Certain cultures may not have easily accessible digital music       resources, requiring creative approaches or recorded family music.
  • Diverse       Preferences within Cultural Groups: Not all patients from the same culture       share the same musical tastes, so individualized selection remains key.
• Caregiver      Training and Education: Caregivers need basic training to identify appropriate music      selections and to know when and how to use music effectively.
• Considerations      for Emotional Triggers: Music can evoke both positive and painful memories, so caregivers      should be aware of patients’ reactions and make adjustments accordingly.

8. Conclusion: The Future of Music in Dementia Care

• The      Growing Role of Music in Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care: Music is increasingly      recognized as a vital therapeutic tool in Alzheimer’s care, offering a      non-pharmacological way to improve the emotional and cognitive wellbeing      of patients.
• Advancements      in Research and Technology: Research in this field is ongoing, with technology allowing for      easier implementation of personalized playlists and real-time adjustments      based on patient feedback.
• Encouraging      Family Involvement and Cultural Inclusivity: Family input and cultural relevance are      critical in creating effective, compassionate music interventions that      respect each individual’s background and experiences.

Final Words

Cultural and personalized music interventions in Alzheimer’s care bring not only memory but also joy, dignity, and a sense of self to those affected by the disease. As we continue to explore the role of music in this field, let us keep in mind its potential to bring comfort and connection to patients and their families. By embracing cultural diversity and personalization, we can make Alzheimer’s care more compassionate, effective, and meaningful.

Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to any questions or discussions on this impactful approach to Alzheimer’s care.

How can music help support a person living with dementia?

Music will have a positive effect on a person living with demenita in that it can have a calming effect as well as a stimulating effect. Recalling emotional memories, though not always physical memories.

Music can aid a carer in person centrered care, How?

The "Life-Changing" Power of Music in Improving Quality of Lives for People with Dementia

The use of music interventions as a non-pharmacological therapy to improve mood, cognitive functions, and memory, and provide a sense of connection and socialization for people living with dementia has gained popularity in recent years. While studies have shown the potential benefits of music therapy as a complementary treatment option for people living with dementia, the application of music as an intervention tool is limited to active music therapy and receptive music therapy. Active music therapy has participants produce musical sounds through singing, songwriting, playing instruments and improvisation. Receptive music therapy is a guided listening practice. Coming from my previous work experience in disability education and lived experience with dementia, I believe more can be done with musical intervention in supporting people living with dementia to improve their functional receptive communication skills, to manage their auditory sensitivity from external stimuli and to use music elements like tempo and tone in non-verbal communication are rather limited. Therefore, in my presentation, I will be speaking on the untapped opportunities that musical intervention can offer to people living with dementia.