AMSTERDAM (AP) — Megan Worthy, a 58-year-old woman from Canberra, Australia, has been grappling with a rare form of early-onset dementia that affects her vision and cognitive functions. Despite her challenges, Worthy finds solace and joy in music. She recalls her childhood experiences of singing in a choir and is transported back to those memories as she joins her daughter, Bronte, in a singing circle at the prestigious Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. This event brings together individuals with various neurological conditions, providing a unique form of therapeutic engagement through music.
Worthy describes her condition as “pretty brutal,” reflecting on the gradual loss she faces. The singing circle, organized by opera singer Maartje de Lint, aims to create a supportive environment for seniors with what de Lint refers to as “vulnerable brains.” Many attendees are living with dementia or Parkinson’s disease. This initiative not only enables participants to express themselves through music but also fosters connections between singers and their caregivers.
Millions of individuals worldwide suffer from some form of dementia, which involves a progressive decline in memory, reasoning, and language skills, among other cognitive functions. Variants of dementia exist, including Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most recognized. Other forms, such as vascular dementia, can occur due to impaired blood flow to the brain as a result of small strokes.
The $23.50-per-session singing circle takes place in the Concertgebouw's ornate Mirror Hall, where 14 crystal chandeliers adorn the ceiling. Participants, accompanied by their caregivers, sit in a circle, creating an intimate atmosphere that encourages participation and emotional expression. Selien Kneppers, a 78-year-old former band manager, articulates the sentiment of the group by stating, “music is like vitamins,” highlighting its profound impact on their well-being.
During the sessions, de Lint moves around energetically, often kneeling to reach out to singers and establish a connection. She believes that music serves as a powerful tool for brain activity and can strengthen family bonds. “So we give people perspective,” she explains, emphasizing that these sessions train not only the brain but also the body, helping participants feel more resilient and in touch with their identities.
The emotional impact of the singing circle is evident, as caregivers frequently distribute tissues to attendees. The songs performed range from Elvis Presley’s “Love Me Tender” to Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon” and “Amazing Grace.” The environment encourages tenderness and affection among the singers. One participant was observed gently touching the face of a woman beside him while they sang, illustrating the deep connections formed through shared musical experiences.
Neurobiologist Brankele Frank, who is not directly affiliated with de Lint’s project, acknowledges the benefits of singing for individuals with dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. She explains that music engages brain areas that remain intact despite the progression of cognitive decline. While verbal skills may deteriorate, music touches on emotions, identity, and aspects of self that remain accessible, thereby fostering a sense of connection and belonging.
Scientific research is increasingly exploring the therapeutic benefits of music for individuals with dementia, traumatic brain injuries, and other neurological conditions. Music activates multiple regions of the brain, fostering neural connections that are crucial for language, memory, emotional processing, and movement. Megan’s daughter, Bronte Henfling, attests to the positive experience of participating in the singing circle, noting that it provides a refreshing break from medical appointments and a reminder of the shared humanity in their experience.
Overall, the singing circle at the Concertgebouw exemplifies the transformative power of music for individuals facing neurological challenges. It not only aids cognitive functions but also enriches the emotional lives of singers and their caregivers, highlighting the profound bonds that music can foster within the community.
