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MUSIC AS THERAPY

October 22, 2019

Music is an important part of our life. We listen to songs in the car, at stores, and everywhere in between.Music has the ability to evoke memories and feelings from the past.

Did you know music offers health benefits as well? Seniors who listen to music have a better outlook on life, more social interaction and improved recovery time. Music can also increase mobility, coordination and cognitive skills. Hearing that “special” song can offer comfort and turn a bad mood around instantly.

Music therapy helps with issues such as:

• Cognitive skills – music helps process thoughts and maintain memories.
• Speech skills – music helps slow deterioration of speech and language skills. Studies show how even when someone affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia loses the ability to speak, they can still recognize and hum or sing along to their favorite song(s).
• Stress reduction – music increases relaxation, reduces tension and anxiety.
• Physical skills – music can inspire toe tapping, clapping and dancing.

Technology has made it easy to incorporate music into our lives. Here are a few ways to help foster that with your aging loved ones:

• Have a sing-along. This can promote a sense of community and allows people to interact with each other.
• Encourage your loved one to play an instrument they once played. This can help slow down the heart rate, lower blood pressure and increase self-esteem.
• Go to a live concert. Many communities offer monthly concerts but bands, choirs and musical groups from schools often perform concerts as well.

Music can be food for your soul by bringing joy to your heart and rhythm to move your body and mind! Find the songs that speak to your loved ones.