How the Elderly Can Benefit From Music Therapy

Elder Care Southampton NY

Music has a multitude of benefits for people of every age, but especially has an impact on the aging population. It has been proven to increase memory function, relax the body, reduce muscle tension, and boost productivity. This form of therapy involves a credentialed professional teaching music to elders who have emotional, cognitive, physical, or social disabilities. The music therapist will create an individualized goal for the senior in order to address their issues through singing, dancing, creating, or listening to music. It has especially been successful with treating diseases, such as dementia and Parkinson’s because it has helped many people recover their speech through rhythmic patterns. To determine if music therapy is the right solution for a senior who is accepting elderly care, here are some of the powerful benefits that can be found in music.

Benefits of Music Therapy

Improves Physical Health

There have been many studies conducted to prove just how effective music can be on the health and wellness of seniors over 65 years old. One two-year study was conducted with 300 seniors, ages 65 and over, to show the effects of art participation on the elder community. The group that had participated in art programs compared to the controlled group who had limited art participation went to the doctor less frequently, mental health was improved, less medication was needed, and they had overall better health than that of the controlled group.

Improves Psychological Health

Music therapy on seniors getting in-home care does not just have a strong impact on their physical health, but also on their psychological well-being. Regular music programs have given senior citizens an outlet to express themselves creatively, become better learners, increase self-understanding, and participate in programs that bring them great joy. Also, being able to learn new musical skills has given elders a great sense of accomplishment, giving them an increased perception of self-worth.

Strengthened Memory

Personalized music has proven to have a profound effect on seniors who are suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s because listening to music has been known to stimulate the part of these seniors that have very little recollection of past memories. Cognitive test scores have been greatly improved by allowing the elder to listen to music from their past.

Better Social Skills

Although seniors, family members, and caregivers are often from different generations, one thing that has allowed them all to connect is music. Music groups enable the senior to feel as though they are included into a social group for an enhanced feeling of belonging. It also allows seniors to work together to create music through singing, moving to the beat, and playing instruments, strengthening the bond between them.

Music therapy is not a quick fix for whatever is ailing the aging adult in senior care, but after a period of time, can drastically improve the physical, emotional, and cognitive health of elders.

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

Source

Lehmberg, Lisa J. and Fung, C. Victor. Benefits of Music Participation for Senior Citizens. (2010).