Unlocking The Power Of Music To Clear Brain Fog
In a small, preliminary study, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy found that piano lessons may support their brain health. Robin Hesselink, a participant in a pilot program at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida, shared how the lessons provided a positive distraction amidst the stress of treatment. “Despite the external pressures affecting my mood, piano practice and attending lessons were consistently something uplifting that I looked forward to,” he noted. For Hesselink, who is receiving treatment for stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, these sessions offered a brief escape, fostering enjoyment and positivity during challenging times.
In addition to boosting mood, the piano lessons seemed to enhance the participants’ executive functions, according to a news release from the University of South Florida (USF). The initiative, named “Keys to Staying Sharp,” aims to address cognitive decline often associated with chemotherapy. Jennifer Bugos, a professor of music education at USF, explained that the study investigates whether social support during musical instrument learning can improve cognitive abilities in cancer patients.
The research seeks to identify which specific cognitive functions may benefit from music training and to determine the optimal duration for such instruction. Dr. Melissa Mallory, a surgical oncologist at Moffitt, emphasized the importance of finding new, medication-free strategies to improve mental health and overall well-being in patients facing cancer treatment. She noted the need for comprehensive, patient-centered approaches to cancer care.
Although the findings have yet to be published in a peer-reviewed journal, the feedback from the 15 participants has been encouraging. Bugos also mentioned that music therapy could assist individuals recovering from severe COVID-19. For instance, playing a smaller version of a saxophone, called a J-Sax, appeared to help COVID survivors improve their breathing and cognitive skills.
Darlene DeMarie, another participant in the study, expressed her enjoyment of the J-Sax program. She acknowledged the initial challenges but found the experience rewarding as she recognized her progress. “Music is like therapy, and it definitely enriches our lives,” DeMarie remarked, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of engaging with music.
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