Music for Seniors

The benefits of music activities for seniors

For older Australians, music therapy is an extremely effective method to help address problems such as chronic pain, stress, depression and even neurological ailments such as Parkinson’s disease. Let’s take a closer look.

Stress reduction

We all know music can help soothe and calm us when we’re feeling stressed or anxious. It slows our heart rate and reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol, increasing relaxation and even self-esteem. For seniors who suffer from neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, music therapy can often act as a circuit breaker if they become trapped in a state of anxiety. Often, playing a track that is nostalgic can help lift us out of our present mood and transport us to a happier, more peaceful place.

Music therapy inspires movement

How often have we felt uninspired to exercise until we put on our favourite music? Numerous studies have found the motivational power of music when it comes to physical activity. Not only does it encourage us to get up and move, but it keeps us moving for longer.

Older Australians of any fitness level can benefit from an increase in movement, which helps improve flexibility and muscle tone, heart health, bone density and balance. Whether it’s an energetic salsa across the dance floor or clapping along from a chair, all forms of movement bring about positive impacts on the body.

Music therapy for seniors with neurological conditions

While we’ve known the benefits of music therapy for a long time, we’re now discovering ways to actually measure it. A recent study at Johns Hopkins University has found that group singing can improve the quality of life and voice strength and clarity for those suffering from neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. They’ve also developed a unique choral choir for Parkinson’s sufferers to learn how singing improves neurological function and elevates mood and spirit.

Singing together has a multitude of wonderful benefits. It increases participants’ rhythmic movement, emotional expression, vocal volume and clarity and, of course, promotes a sense of community. It is really an indispensable activity.