Music therapy; Can be beneficial for older adults?
What are the benefits of Music Therapy in Aging Adults?
Older adults can particularly benefit from simply listening to music. It gives them coping mechanisms from stress and depression. It could also play as an outlet for their creativity, social needs, and mental stimulation.
Music therapy allows people to address issues and express themselves in a way that they normally can’t with words alone.
The area of study in music therapy has also become wider known in the past century. It's now being used in community facilities, assisted living centers, and even in schools.
Music therapy has even become an effective treatment plan for older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
Benefits
Music therapy provides chances for aging adults to improve their:
Management of pain and discomfort
Reducing anxiety and stress (also works for the caregivers)
Improving mental health and Memory recall
Creativity and Social activity within the community
Sense of having self-control in any circumstances
The function of Music Therapy
Playing or listening to music provides a way to express yourself and helps you breathe rhythmically. This can improve respiratory health, help you release body tension and lift up your mood — all of which can positively impact your overall quality of life.
Two types of Music Therapy
1. Active music therapy- This involves playing simple instruments, dancing, or singing. Such activity encourages physical stimulation that can be beneficial for physical health.
2. Receptive music therapy- This involves mindful listening to music and typically for recorded or live music. The song choices will often reflect the person's culture, generation, and personal experiences.
Choosing the suitable music and tunes:
Older adults and people with late-stage dementia often respond to childhood folk songs, especially sung in the language in which they can easily adapt and learn
Drum Circles are suitable for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia who can tolerate loud drumming because it taps into their rhythmic instinct.
Music therapy is often used with people who have disabilities or illnesses, but the healing benefits of music can be enjoyed by anyone and at any age.
Sources:
https://www.valleyvna.org/2016/03/how-to-use-music-as-therapy-for-older-adults/
https://www.caringvillage.com/2017/05/01/music-therapy-older-adults/
