Remedies in Melodies:
The Healing Benefits of Music for the Elderly
Marie Villeza
Music is an ancient method by which we soothe babies, express our souls, and offer praise. In 1697, William Congreve said that music’s charms could “soothe the savage breast.” Now science is revealing what our intuitions always told us about music—that music therapy is good for our mental health. The elderly population can reap special healing benefits by expressing themselves through music and song, and as a result, many programs are incorporating music into caregiving for seniors.
Music offers special therapeutic benefits that other means like talking can’t provide. The National Alliance on Mental Health explains that using music to convey thoughts and feelings, versus trying to discuss troubles, allows people to express themselves freely. Someone can find a song that speaks to what is inside, when finding the words to talk through it isn’t possible.
Improvising on instruments is a superb way to express those hard-to-share feelings. One can strum a harp suggesting something soft and poignant, or beat a thunderstorm on a drum. Afterwards, players can talk about the variations in the music, such as how quiet or loud, how harsh or gentle, how fast or slow, and process what they were feeling while playing. Creating organized songs is another helpful and healing means for expressing ourselves. Writing lyrics and then selecting instruments to best articulate emotions can be powerful and moving.
Our moods can be deeply affected by music, which is why we often seek music to either change, or coordinate with, our feelings. People feeling blue can raise their mood by playing what correlates with how they feel, then gradually playing more upbeat music. Because music involves rhythmic sounds, it stimulates a part of the brain that relaxes us and lowers impulsiveness. Benefits like these can apply to many mental therapy programs.
Experts note using music for improved welfare in a broad variety of issues, from addiction, to depression, to anxiety: “Some of the positive effects of singing and music include: Reduced stress levels and lower blood pressure, boost to the immune system, and help in coping with physical pain.” The effects can be particularly noteworthy in our elderly friends and family. The NAMM Foundation explains that music can actually alter an older person’s perception of life and improve people’s sense of well-being.
Studies show tremendous potential gains from involving music in therapeutic programs for the elderly. Interestingly, music offers such a special connection to our souls that we carry it throughout our lives, from the tender age of 16 weeks in the womb until in our oldest and weakest moments. According to experts cited by Age UK, “We tend to remain contactable as musical beings on some level right up to the very end of life.” Because of this engagement that speaks to our innermost selves, elderly people can reap special benefits from interacting with music. Participating in music also helps seniors remain socially engaged and encourages communication, two things that can decline in those with dementia.
The benefits don’t stop there. Studies of older adults found their ability to process new information improved with just a few months of learning music. Their memory and hearing improved, heart health was better, and stress hormones were lower. Some of those positive effects could be seen as deeply as the inner workings of their cells. Bottom line, engaging activities such as playing music “can contribute to a better quality of life for people with dementia and their families and carers.”
Through music, we can be blessed with healing. Self-expression through song or on instruments, or just listening to special tunes, can speak to our souls and improve our well-being. The Psalmist often refers to song and instrument for expression, as an outlet for sorrows, joy, and praise. Now science agrees, that even into the end of our days in this life, music can uplift us and touch our innermost selves.
Music offers special therapeutic benefits that other means like talking can’t provide. The National Alliance on Mental Health explains that using music to convey thoughts and feelings, versus trying to discuss troubles, allows people to express themselves freely. Someone can find a song that speaks to what is inside, when finding the words to talk through it isn’t possible.
Improvising on instruments is a superb way to express those hard-to-share feelings. One can strum a harp suggesting something soft and poignant, or beat a thunderstorm on a drum. Afterwards, players can talk about the variations in the music, such as how quiet or loud, how harsh or gentle, how fast or slow, and process what they were feeling while playing. Creating organized songs is another helpful and healing means for expressing ourselves. Writing lyrics and then selecting instruments to best articulate emotions can be powerful and moving.
Our moods can be deeply affected by music, which is why we often seek music to either change, or coordinate with, our feelings. People feeling blue can raise their mood by playing what correlates with how they feel, then gradually playing more upbeat music. Because music involves rhythmic sounds, it stimulates a part of the brain that relaxes us and lowers impulsiveness. Benefits like these can apply to many mental therapy programs.
Experts note using music for improved welfare in a broad variety of issues, from addiction, to depression, to anxiety: “Some of the positive effects of singing and music include: Reduced stress levels and lower blood pressure, boost to the immune system, and help in coping with physical pain.” The effects can be particularly noteworthy in our elderly friends and family. The NAMM Foundation explains that music can actually alter an older person’s perception of life and improve people’s sense of well-being.
Studies show tremendous potential gains from involving music in therapeutic programs for the elderly. Interestingly, music offers such a special connection to our souls that we carry it throughout our lives, from the tender age of 16 weeks in the womb until in our oldest and weakest moments. According to experts cited by Age UK, “We tend to remain contactable as musical beings on some level right up to the very end of life.” Because of this engagement that speaks to our innermost selves, elderly people can reap special benefits from interacting with music. Participating in music also helps seniors remain socially engaged and encourages communication, two things that can decline in those with dementia.
The benefits don’t stop there. Studies of older adults found their ability to process new information improved with just a few months of learning music. Their memory and hearing improved, heart health was better, and stress hormones were lower. Some of those positive effects could be seen as deeply as the inner workings of their cells. Bottom line, engaging activities such as playing music “can contribute to a better quality of life for people with dementia and their families and carers.”
Through music, we can be blessed with healing. Self-expression through song or on instruments, or just listening to special tunes, can speak to our souls and improve our well-being. The Psalmist often refers to song and instrument for expression, as an outlet for sorrows, joy, and praise. Now science agrees, that even into the end of our days in this life, music can uplift us and touch our innermost selves.
Addendum
Resources for Eldercare
Medication Safety For The Elderly: A Guide For Patients And Caregivers
Overdose Response Guide: Awareness, Prevention, And Preparedness For Caregivers Of Addicts
The Ultimate Guide To Senior Nutrition
The Benefits Of Cooking With Alzheimer’s: A Caregiver’s Guide
Health: What To Expect In Your 70s And Beyond
A Guide To Downsizing For Seniors And Their Loved Ones
Is My Elderly Parent Incompetent? What To Do If You’re Worried
Senior-Friendly Remodeling
12 Ways To Help Seniors Avoid Social Isolation
Caretakers’ Guide To Moving Seniors Into A Facility
Medication Safety For The Elderly: A Guide For Patients And Caregivers
Overdose Response Guide: Awareness, Prevention, And Preparedness For Caregivers Of Addicts
The Ultimate Guide To Senior Nutrition
The Benefits Of Cooking With Alzheimer’s: A Caregiver’s Guide
Health: What To Expect In Your 70s And Beyond
A Guide To Downsizing For Seniors And Their Loved Ones
Is My Elderly Parent Incompetent? What To Do If You’re Worried
Senior-Friendly Remodeling
12 Ways To Help Seniors Avoid Social Isolation
Caretakers’ Guide To Moving Seniors Into A Facility