Unlocking the Brain with Music: A Radiologist’s Perspective on Dementia, Memory, and Healing
As an imaging radiologist specializing in early detection of brain disease, I spend much of my time studying the structure and function of the brain, often long before symptoms become obvious to patients or their loved ones. Advances in brain imaging, like PET and functional MRI, give us the remarkable ability to detect changes associated with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease years before they progress. But while technology offers clarity, it is often the most human elements—like music—that help bring healing and connection into focus.
The Surprising Power of Music in the Aging Brain
One of the most fascinating and hopeful developments I’ve followed in recent years is the role of music in the treatment and care of patients with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. As a physician, I’m always guided by data. And the data, in this case, is compelling: music activates multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, especially those related to memory, emotion, language, and motor coordination.
In patients with dementia, many brain regions suffer damage, but the musical memory centers often remain relatively intact, even in late-stage disease. This makes music a unique tool—not just for comfort, but for communication, cognitive stimulation, and even neurorehabilitation.
What Brain Imaging Reveals About Music and Memory
Functional MRI and PET scans show that music lights up regions in the brain's medial prefrontal cortex and temporal lobes—areas that are among the last to degenerate in Alzheimer’s disease. These regions are tied to long-term memory, emotional recall, and identity. This explains why patients who have lost the ability to speak can still sing lyrics to songs they heard in their youth.
In clinical practice, we sometimes see patients become more alert, communicative, or emotionally responsive after engaging with music. It's not anecdotal—it's neurologically supported. Music, quite literally, gives parts of the brain a reason to engage.
Practical Benefits for Patients and Families
Here’s how music is actively helping those living with dementia:
Mood Enhancement: Music reduces agitation, anxiety, and depression—without the side effects of medication.
Memory Activation: Familiar music evokes deep autobiographical memories, often rekindling a patient’s sense of self.
Language and Communication: Singing and rhythmic engagement can stimulate speech centers, helping non-verbal patients express themselves.
Social Bonding: Music fosters connection between patients and caregivers, offering shared moments of joy and recognition.
For caregivers, incorporating music into daily routines doesn’t require formal training. Something as simple as playing a personalized playlist of a loved one’s favorite songs—especially from their teens and early adulthood—can transform the atmosphere of a room and bring someone back to themselves, even if just for a few minutes.
Music and Medicine: Partners in Brain Health
I believe strongly in an integrative approach to brain health. Early detection through imaging remains one of our greatest tools for prevention and intervention. But tools like music—rooted in empathy and art—remind us that healing happens on multiple levels. We should be using every available modality to support the brain: clinical, emotional, social, and even musical.
If you have a loved one experiencing memory loss, I encourage you to explore the role of music in their care. And if you're concerned about your own memory or cognitive function, don't wait—speak to your doctor about early screening options. At ImagingWest, we offer state-of-the-art brain imaging that helps patients and families take control of their brain health early.
In health and harmony,
Dr. Christopher Riedl, MD, PhD
Imaging Radiologist | Founder of ImagingWest
Advancing the early detection of neurodegenerative disease, one scan at a time.
