Rapport médical #2 (en anglais)
Title: Drumming to the rhythms
of life.
Author(s): Friedman, Dorian
Source: U.S. News & World Report; 06/09/97, Vol. 122 Issue 22, p17, 1/2p,
1c
Document Type: Article
Subject(s): ALZHEIMER'S disease -- Patients -- Mental health
MUSIC therapy for the aged
Abstract: Considers how drumming is becoming an important
therapeutic tool in the United States. Drumming as a scared ritual in
many societies; The benefits of drumming and other forms of music therapy
in helping Alzheimer's patients stay focused; The reduction of stress
with drumming exercises; Speculation as to how music affects the brain
in Alzheimer's patients.
DRUMMING TO THE RHYTHMS OF LIFE
Since our ancestors first struck sticks
and rocks against the ground, drumming has been a sacred ritual in
many societies. It is a big part of various New Age movements. And
in corporate America, musical management consultants are leading drum
workshops to build team spirit. (Apple, Motorola, and AT&T have
reportedly tried it.)
Drumming is becoming an important therapeutic tool. In nursing homes, "drum
circles" and other forms of music therapy help Alzheimer's patients focus,
if only temporarily. Drumming exercises greatly reduce stress among Vietnam
veterans and other victims of trauma, apparently by altering their brain-wave
patterns. And listening to music with rhythmic cues improves motor coordination
in stroke patients and in those with Parkinson's disease, helping them walk
up to 50 percent faster. "Everything we do in life comes down to rhythm," says
counselor Bob Bloom. "If something is off, we can reintroduce a correct
rhythm to realign our physical and emotional state."
On a recent morning at the Hebrew Home of Greater Washington, D.C., a dozen
elderly residents with dementia gathered for their weekly rhythm circle. Therapist
Kathy Mollard had each member bang out numbers and shake maracas to the tune
of Yankee Doodle. Some who seemed otherwise confused could nonetheless tap
perfectly on cue. Alzheimer's researchers report similar results: patients
unable to speak who can sing childhood melodies; those barely able to walk
who can dance a waltz. As yet, neuroscience has no sure explanation, but some
experts think the brain's receptors for music and rhythm are spared the early
ravages of senility. And while no amount of drumming can cure the disease,
music therapist Barry Bernstein notes, "It can improve the quality of
life and offer another way for family members to communicate with their loved
one."
~~~~~~~~
By Dorian Friedman
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Source: U.S. News & World Report, 06/09/97, Vol. 122 Issue 22, p17, 1p
Item: 9706056993