Home Care Assistance – Understanding Music Therapy and Music Therapy Activities

Music therapy is a therapy approach that utilizes the power of music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. It involves a trained music therapist’s intentional use of music to support senior individuals and abilities in achieving therapeutic goals. There are different activities that a therapist may have a senior do during these sessions. Here is everything you need to know about music therapy and what may occur in a session for your loved one.

What It Is?

Music therapy is unique in that it is still therapy and has all of the therapeutic benefits of traditional therapy, but many more people can get involved. If your loved one has become closed off, non-verbal, or has difficulty explaining things, this therapy doesn’t always involve words. Instead, they may listen to music or play music. They may turn on songs to express themselves or listen to certain instruments to calm themselves. Music therapy can enhance self-expression and facilitate emotional healing through various techniques, such as singing, playing instruments, listening, and improvisation. If you have been looking for something new to encourage your loved one to do, this may be just the thing.

Music for Relaxation

If your senior has been stressed and even the help of home care assistance hasn’t been able to help them unwind, it’s time to talk to a therapist about it. One of the best activities in music therapy is learning to relax. Maybe this is not a traditional activity, but it is still crucial for a senior to learn to unwind and let go of all the stress and tension in their bodies. Chronic stress can be detrimental to their health. However, listening to a soothing playlist in the comfort of their room or therapist’s office can have long-lasting results when done correctly.

Performing Music

You may think you have to be trained in music, but the truth is anyone can hop on an instrument and find the notes that resonate with their feelings. Maybe the piano keys sound angry and volatile or sweet and slow. This can be an inside look at how someone feels without any words. It can help a therapist understand what’s going on inside versus what a senior may be saying out loud. This interactive task may help your loved one express themselves, and then it can be shared with you or even home care assistance.

Movement During Music Sessions

If your senior starts listening to music, they may feel compelled to dance. This is an expression! It should not be stopped; it can be one of the best activities during a music therapy session. Let your body feel the notes and sway with the rhythm. It can be calming and peaceful, filled with tons of benefits. You will often find that music encourages movement, which is crucial for seniors.

Many seniors neglect how they’re feeling because they have been caring for families so long they don’t believe their feelings are valid. Focusing on mental health is crucial, and part of this is dealing with negative emotions and stress. If your senior wants to find a music therapist, it’s time to start looking around. Home care assistance can help transport your loved one to these appointments.

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care assistance in Southampton, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.