Can music unlock the mind? Discover how melody brings memory to life in dementia care.
In this moving episode, Dr. Anne Kenny sits down with world-renowned music therapist Dr. Concetta Tomaino to explore the transformative role of music in dementia care. As a pioneer in the field and co-founder of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function, Dr. Tomaino shares her remarkable journey, from her early fascination with the emotional and neurological effects of music, to working alongside the late Dr. Oliver Sacks, to publishing her acclaimed book Awakenings: Music, Memory, and the Mind.
Through personal stories and professional insight, Dr. Tomaino reflects on what drew her to music therapy and how she’s seen melody rekindle memory, unlock speech, and spark connection in people affected by Alzheimer’s and other neurological conditions. Whether you’re a caregiver, clinician, or simply curious about the brain’s connection to music, this episode is a powerful reminder of music’s ability to heal where words fall short.
Tune in to hear how rhythm, memory, and heart come together—one note at a time.
Thank you to our podcast sponsors!
Eli Lilly and Family Caregiver Alliance
and to listeners like you!
Links from the Epidsode:
Institute for Music and Neurologic Function - Mount Vernon, NY https://www.imnf.org
Link for book Music Has Power® in Senior Wellness and Healthcare | Jessica Kingsley Publishers - USA
Spiritune – gives a discount through this imnf link Sign Up - Spiritune
www.CBMT.org – to find local music therapists