As we age, we can experience a variety of issues that can negatively impact our health and well-being. However, there are a variety of therapies available can help seniors stay alert, focused, happy, and healthy. For example, physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and increases mobility, while speech therapy focuses on improving communication issues.
Another popular treatment is music therapy, which is a complementary and alternative therapy that focuses on using the power of music and song to enhance the emotional, physical, and mental health of seniors. Learn more about the nine main ways music therapy can help seniors in Canada.
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy helps seniors enhance their mental health and general well-being through the uplifting nature of music. Through this method, trained and accredited professionals sing, play songs or instruments, or encourage seniors to create songs and music themselves. This alternative health approach can positively impact the quality of life for aging adults.
Music therapy can also help with social and emotional functioning, mental processing, and physical health. It can also be used during palliative care or hospice and be beneficial for seniors living with anxiety, depression, dementia, or Alzheimer’s disease.
How Can Music Therapy Benefit Seniors in Canada?
Here are some key benefits of music therapy for seniors:
Music Therapy Can Improve Memory
Music activates both the left and right sides of the brain at the same time. The activation of both hemispheres can enhance memory. This is especially helpful for seniors experiencing memory-related issues due to health conditions like a stroke or dementia.
Music Therapy Can Reduce Depression
Singing, playing an instrument, and other ways of making music can reduce the likelihood of depression and anxiety. Cheerful tones and catchy beats of music lift moods naturally and can promote a positive disposition.
Music Therapy Can Reduce Stress
According to current research, music set at 60 beats per minute can synchronize the brain with the beat. This synchronization produces alpha brainwaves, which are present when we are relaxed. This can help seniors reduce their stress levels.
Music Therapy Can Improve Self-Esteem
Singing and listening to music can increase a senior's self-esteem and confidence through interaction and feelings of self-accomplishment and positivity.
Music Therapy Can Promote Cognitive Function
Music, songs, or playing an instrument can stimulate certain areas of the brain to increase blood flow, according to a study from the Journal of Biology. Increased blood flow transmits oxygen and nutrients that can help brain function.
Music Therapy Can Inspire Movement
Music, with its natural rhythm, stimulates movement and can help seniors move their feet and hands to get the blood circulating. This can be very helpful for seniors because as people get older, their mobility and physical activities decline, causing muscle atrophy.
Music Therapy Can Complement Physical Rehab
Music not only helps seniors improve their mood, but it can also easily complement physical therapy techniques. Since the rhythm of music can inspire seniors to get up and start moving, any hand and foot movement fostered by music therapy can assist seniors who are recovering from physical issues caused by aging, chronic conditions, or injuries.
Music Therapy Can Foster Communication
Music can help seniors improve their speech skills and inspire them to express themselves by singing, moving their hands, or humming. This increased expression can be helpful in boosting communication levels.
Music Therapy Can Help Seniors Create Social Connections
Group music therapy sessions can help increase social connections through a shared activity. In addition, music enables seniors to listen and be present in the moment, helping them to engage more in their everyday life. Since seniors are at an increased risk of social isolation, this level of connection and engagement can be quite helpful.
How In-Home Caregivers from Senior Home Care by Angels Help Seniors in Canada Engage in Music Therapy
The power of music can help seniors evoke fond memories, lift their mood, and decrease anxiety and depression. Keeping the brain active is critical to maintaining the overall health and well-being of seniors inside the home.
If you're concerned about your senior loved one's health and well-being, consider adding music therapy to their regular routine so they can enjoy its soothing and melodic benefits. You can also hire a professional in-home caregiver from Senior Home Care by Angels to help your loved one get engaged in music therapy. Although our in-home caregivers may not be certified music therapists, they can help your loved one get all the benefits at home.
Our caregivers can find opportunities for your loved one to listen and enjoy music in the comforts of home. They can follow the recommendations of a certified music therapist, making sure to turn on the right tunes at the correct volume for an appropriate amount of time. They can also engage your older loved one to move, dance, sing, and have fun. If your loved one is interested in attending group music therapy sessions, our caregivers can help them arrange transportation.
Contact your local Senior Home Care by Angels office to learn more about our home care services.