This beautiful story is about an accomplished pianist diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. As a young man, Lucien Leinfelder had studied music at Julliard and played professionally with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. At 82, Lucien Leinfelder was suffering from a severe case of Parkinson’s disease. Fortunately, he loses his symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease while playing the piano. Here is the link to his story and video.
We have learned through the Music and Memory program, which we have implemented with many of our clients, the impact of music on those suffering from Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. It reminds us of who we used to be when we listen to music that triggers memories from our past. It isn’t just listening to music that reminds us, it can also be playing a musical instrument.
One of our clients suffering from late stage dementia was an accomplished horn player. He performed in bands much of his life. Although he has now lost the capacity to play, when he puts the mouthpiece from his horn (no longer attached to the musical instrument) between his lips, he is given a respite from the symptoms which currently consume him and he comes alive.
Any respite from the symptoms of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and dementia is a wonderful thing.