You all must have felt the cheer and joy music brings – not just as children but also as adults and at an elderly age. Surprisingly, the effect you see is not your mind game. For years, thousands of studies have been conducted, and the effectiveness of music therapies for people of all ages has been concluded.
More significant benefits have been seen among individuals with special needs and those who have entered retirement. Common problems such as stress, depression, chronic pain, dementia, and even autism have reportedly been cured or at least elevated to some extent, with overall well-being becoming better.
Here is how music lessons have helped and continue to contribute to the health status of seniors –
Improved Alzheimer’s and Dementia Symptoms
Indulging in music activities provides excellent relief and comfort to older people suffering from severe memory loss and Alzheimer’s. Creating their favorite playlists, using a sing-along DVD, or simply singing with family members gives them engaging and powerful stimuli. As a result, their thinking, mood levels, and sensory processing improve with time.
Motivated Exercise Routine
We all know how essential regular walking and exercising are for the well-being of older family members, but because they can sometimes be monotonous and tiring, playing their favorite songs alone can motivate them to engage in more physical activity. People of all ages can walk, run, dance, and stretch more, which helps improve strength, flexibility, and heart health.
Reduced Isolation
A long list of health problems can make even simple communication challenging for seniors. They often feel out of place due to a decline in their speaking skills, so they try to isolate themselves more. However, humming or singing the songs they remember opens up avenues of self-expression and communication that are otherwise not possible.
Enhanced Social Interaction
Music always brings people together. Regardless of the city and genre, you can find someone with the same taste as yours. This works perfectly in music therapies, where older people get a chance to connect to other members of their group and develop a strong and positive network.
Inspired Life
Listening to music makes older adults happy. They get moving by dancing, clapping, and singing and can even learn a musical instrument to make their own music. You can even encourage them to join retirement communities that host live music shows or take their members to perform at a local concert and performance.
By harnessing the power of music, you can improve your loved one’s quality of life. So, in case you look after a senior in your family, pick a playlist that is:
- Fun and familiar
- It goes with the mood you want to encourage
- Suitable for clapping, singing, and dancing
