While we may have different style preferences, almost all of us enjoy listening to music. But did you know that music can provide significant benefits for health and wellbeing as we age?
Not only can music stimulate memories and bring satisfaction and joy, but it can also help seniors develop connections with others.
So how can music be incorporated into aged care and what are the benefits?
How can music be incorporated into aged care?
One of the most common ways music is integrated into aged care is through music therapy. Music therapy refers to the planned and creative use of music by a trained professional to enhance the health and wellbeing of individuals. In an aged care facility, music therapy could involve group singing of familiar songs, playing instruments to specific beats, or even movement and dancing.
What are the benefits of music for seniors?
Music can provide many benefits for aged care residents. These include:
• Enhancing their emotional well-being: Music can stir up emotions and evoke memories. This can help to reduce feelings of depression and social isolation. Music can be particularly effective for improving wellbeing as it bypasses areas of the brain that are commonly switched off by dementia. Therefore, it can allow residents to recall happier times. Playing upbeat tunes can also make seniors feel more energetic and motivated.
• Improved social interactions: Some people increasingly withdraw from social activities as they age. Music can provide opportunities to participate in group activities that can bring significant social benefits. For example, singing in a choir or joining a musical ensemble can allow seniors to interact with others and make new friends.
• Reducing stress levels: Ageing can bring with it increased stress, caused by health issues and social isolation. This can lead to increased anxiety, agitation and frustration. Studies have shown that music can reduce stress and anxiety.
• Improving cognitive function: Music can stimulate the brain and therefore help you to maintain cognitive function as we age. Learning to play an instrument or memorising the lyrics to a new song can help improve memory and concentration-vital skills for maintaining cognitive function.
• Facilitating lifelong learning: Learning new skills is a great way to keep yourself mentally active and reduce the risk of cognitive decline, Music can provide the opportunity to learn new skills even as we age. For example, you may learn to play a new instrument.
• Assisting pain management: Not only can music distract seniors from pain they may be experiencing, it can also release endorphins- the body’s natural painkillers.
• Improving co-ordination: Playing an instrument requires dexterity and co-ordination. Therefore, playing an instrument can help seniors to improve and maintain their fine-motor skills.
• Encourages physical activity: Maintaining physical activity for seniors can sometimes be a challenge. Activities such as dancing provide a great way to encourage seniors to remain physically active.
• Facilitating personal expression: For those living in aged care, finding ways to express themselves can be challenging. Whether they are singing, writing a song or playing an instrument music can provide a platform for seniors to express their creativity, thoughts and emotions. This can provide them with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Getting older can bring with it many challenges. Music can not only provide seniors with comfort and enjoyment but also assist them in navigating these challenges.
Are you looking for a new career? A career in aged care can be highly rewarding and satisfying, allowing you to make a difference in the lives of others. If you are looking for a career in aged care, Aged Care Resumes can help. We are pleased to offer various services including our aged care resume and cover letter writing service.
Article References
Boecker, B (16 July 2024) ‘CEO of Resparke Alison Harrington on how music can help us improve dementia care’, Women’s Agenda, accessed 30 December 2024.
Marks, T (12 April 2024) ‘How music heals us’, Bay 93.9, accessed 30 December 2024.
Seasons Living (25 October 2023) ‘The Timeless Melody: Benefits of Music for Seniors’, Seasons Living, accessed 30 December 2024.