A 2008 report verifies what caregivers and medical practitioners have suspected for years: music therapy helps stroke patients regain their spirits and improve their cognitive function.
Following a stroke, the brain begins to organize its neural pathways by a process referred to as neuroplasticity. To determine the ability for music therapy to help that process, researchers studied 60 stroke patients who had suffered an acute stroke.
One group was treated with the standard comprehensive rehabilitation. A second group received the standard care and music therapy by listening to 1-2 hours of their favorite music each day. A third group received the standard care and listened to books on cassette tape. All activities were done for two months. Detailed neuropsychological testing was performed for each participant at baseline, three months, and six months after suffering a stroke. In addition, mood and quality-of-life questionnaires were administered at these times.
Conclusion: Researchers found a significant improvement in cognitive function and mood for stroke patients who underwent music therapy as opposed to audiotapes or neither. There is a demonstrable positive effect on the areas of the brain that are responsible for memory, emotions, processing, and motor functions. Consequently, caregivers and medical practitioners should consider “music therapy” to be a valuable addition to the efforts made toward stroke recovery, with no adverse side effects and substantial positive benefits.
For further information: “Music listening enhances cognitive recovery and mood after middle cerebral artery stroke,” Särkämö T. et al,. Brain. Vol 131, March 2008; E-pub Feb 20 2008.
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