Wonders Of Music

Connects three generations

Music is reconnecting a Wynnum father with his family.

Stuart Mutch, 68, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, which progressively attacks brain function and memory, after he started displaying symptoms three years ago.

Since then his mental and social skills have deteriorated gradually.

Mr Mutch’s daughter Sarah Heron recently noticed a difference in her father’s behaviour when he began listening to music at Boppin’ Babies, an early learning music group at the Bayside Uniting Church.

“His short-term memory is non existent, he cant’ remember what he has done that day, and he struggles to speak and find his words,” Mrs Heron said.

“But each Friday when he comes to music his eyes light up and it takes him back to the days when he used to play in bands himself.”

Recent studies have shown “music awakens a part of the brain not impacted by dementia” and it evokes responses such as singing and movement” and can provide “precious moments of connection” with loved ones.

“It is time I can spend with my beautiful daughter and my dad. I will look back on these days with very fond memories,” Mrs Heron said.

Vicky Abad, a music therapist and founder of the Boppin’ Babies program, said the experience allowed the family to bridge the social gap between them.

Originally published in the Wynnum Herald