By Kevin Woo | Special to Alzheimer’s Speaks  January 26, 2013

Remember the days of Casey Kasem and the American Top 40? Anyone with a transistor radio probably spent time on the weekends listening to Kasem’s weekly show as he counted down to the number one most popular song. For me, the countdown was a weekly ritual and holds wonderful memories.

As it turns out, triggering memories of music can also be beneficial to those with Alzheimer’s Disease. Music can generate memories that were thought to be gone forever.

Amanda Janz of the Alzheimer’s Association recently told TheIndyChannel.com that music is a long-term memory that is stored very deep inside the brain. Somehow, she says, Alzheimer’s patients are able to remember music that was part of their early years.

Friends and relatives of Alzheimer’s patients can connect with their loved one by incorporating music into each visit.  Sing their favorite song, play an instrument or hum a tune when visiting your loved one.

It’ll be music to their ears.