Therapeutic Music for Cognitive Support in Dementia Care

How Dementia Affects Cognition and Engagement

Dementia affects areas of the brain responsible for memory, communication, and emotional regulation. As it progresses, everyday interactions—such as conversations, meals, or transitions—can become disorienting or distressing.

But while verbal ability may decline, musical memory often remains intact. Familiar songs can unlock cognitive responses and emotional expression, even in later stages of the condition.

The Power of Personalized Music

Not all music has the same impact. The most effective results come from music that is tailored to the individual, songs that carry personal meaning or reflect the rhythms of daily life.

With therapeutic playlists, caregivers can:

• Reduce agitation during challenging routines like bathing or mealtime
• Encourage participation and attention during activities
• Spark memory recall and emotional expression
• Support smoother transitions and evening routines, especially during sundowning
  
  

These are more than mood boosts, they’re cognitive moments that help reorient and reconnect.

How MusicFirst Supports Dementia Care

MusicFirst by Coro Health was created to make therapeutic music accessible, personalized, and easy to implement, especially in dementia care settings.

The platform includes:

• Curated playlists tailored to emotional outcomes: wakefulness, calm, energy, relaxation, and more
  
  
• A patented Music Prescription Builder™ that matches music selections to cognitive and behavioral goals
  
  
• Full accessibility across devices (TVs, tablets, mobile)
  
  
• Licensed original-artist tracks for familiarity and engagement
  
  

Whether used by activity directors, memory care staff, or family caregivers, MusicFirst helps make daily care more connected and less stressful.

Real Moments. Real Impact.

In memory care communities using MusicFirst, caregivers report dramatic shifts in behavior and engagement. Residents who are typically withdrawn may start humming or tapping along. Others may recall lyrics or ask to hear a favorite song again—creating a rare window into who they are and who they’ve been.

For caregivers, these moments are powerful reminders that connection is still possible, even as memory fades.

Music That Reaches Beyond Memory

Therapeutic music offers a simple but powerful way to support cognition, reduce distress, and bring joy to individuals living with dementia. It’s not a cure, but it is a bridge.

With MusicFirst, those moments of clarity and connection don’t have to be rare. They can be built into everyday care, bringing music, memory, and meaning back into focus.