People like to use music to have fun and let their cares melt away. Music can affect us in many ways: We feel it as alive in us, bringing us into emotional states, accessing memories, and providing a shared experience. This is very true for seniors, too. While we all know that music can alter moods and behavior, there is science behind this therapy, and music therapy is much more than simply playing music. This is why music has become a popular form of therapy for older adults and part of hospice and palliative care therapy.
Music therapy is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that uses music to address individuals’ physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. It can be particularly beneficial for senior citizens, offering a range of positive effects on their overall well-being.
The Theory Behind Music Therapy
Music stimulates the brain in a way nothing else can quite compare. It keeps the mind engaged and moving along as you age. Research done on music and the mind has shown that it can improve sleep quality, mood, and memory. It can also reduce pain, high blood pressure, and anxiety. One reason music has so many benefits is the structure itself. It creates relationships between notes, which causes the brain to work harder to make sense of what is being heard.
Music therapy is a deeply personalized approach involving music interventions by a trained music therapist to achieve specific therapeutic goals. These interventions, which can include listening to music, singing, playing instruments, and composing music, are tailored to the individual’s unique needs and preferences. This level of personalization reassures caregivers and family members that music therapy is a suitable and effective form of therapy for their loved ones.
Benefits of Music Therapy
Cognitive Benefits
Music therapy can enhance cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. It is particularly beneficial for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, as it can help maintain cognitive abilities and slow cognitive decline.
Emotional Benefits
Engaging with music can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and provide a sense of emotional relief. Music therapy can also help seniors process and express their emotions.
Physical Benefits
Music therapy can improve physical health by enhancing motor skills, coordination, and respiratory function. It can also reduce pain perception and promote relaxation.
Social Benefits
Group music therapy sessions foster social interaction and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. They provide opportunities for seniors to connect with others and build supportive relationships.
Quality of Life
Overall, music therapy can significantly enhance the quality of life for senior citizens. It provides a source of joy, creativity, and fulfillment, contributing to a more positive outlook on life.
A Few Healing Examples
Evidence has shown the benefits of directed music therapy in persons with Alzheimer’s, depression, and anxiety disorders, to name a few. The music therapist guides recovery by identifying the best tools for an individual and following up in therapy sessions. Because music is stored in multiple regions of the brain, using music allows a person to access those regions that may be less injured to facilitate improvement. Although some illnesses are progressive, such as Alzheimer’s, improved communication and emotional facilitation can be achieved by tapping into the individual’s music memory.
People with Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, and gait disorders have been shown to benefit from specific therapeutic modalities directed under the therapist. The brain systems involved in hearing and moving automatically work together to move to a beat. This allows rhythm and music to be an effective treatment for physical rehabilitation and maintenance following a neurological diagnosis, such as a stroke.
Music Therapy Formats
- Listening to Music: This can help evoke memories, reduce stress, and improve mood. For seniors with dementia, familiar songs can trigger memories and emotions from the past.
- Singing: Singing can enhance respiratory function, improve articulation, and boost mood. Group singing sessions also promote social interaction.
- Playing Instruments: This activity can improve motor skills, coordination, and cognitive function. It also provides a sense of accomplishment and joy.
- Composing Music: Creating music allows seniors to express themselves creatively, which can be particularly therapeutic for those dealing with depression or anxiety.
The Process
A trained music therapist will take the senior through a relatively standard set of steps.
- Assessment: A music therapist conducts an initial assessment to understand the individual’s needs, preferences, and goals. This may involve interviews, questionnaires, and observation.
- Personalized Plan: Based on the assessment, the therapist develops a personalized therapy plan that outlines the specific interventions and goals for the therapy sessions.
- Implementation: The therapist conducts regular sessions, either individually or in groups. These sessions can take place in various settings, such as nursing homes, community centers, or the individual’s home.
- Evaluation: The therapist continuously evaluates the progress and adjusts the therapy plan as needed. This ensures the therapy remains effective and aligned with the individual’s evolving needs.
Where Do I Find a Music Therapist?
American Music Therapy Association (AMTA)
The AMTA website has an online directory where you can search for board-certified music therapists by location. You can also contact them by phone at 301-589-3300.
Local Healthcare Facilities
Many hospitals, nursing homes, and community centers offer music therapy services or can refer you to a qualified therapist.
Cost of Music Therapy
The cost of music therapy can vary based on several factors, including session length, type of service (individual or group), and location. Individual Sessions typically range from $65 to $125 per hour. Group sessions generally cost less per person.
These rates can fluctuate based on the therapist’s experience, the complexity of the therapy required, and the frequency of sessions.
Medicare may cover music therapy under certain conditions. Medicare Part B can include music therapy and be covered as part of a mental health treatment plan if it is prescribed by a doctor and deemed medically necessary.
It’s important to check with your specific Medicare plan or contact Medicare directly to confirm coverage details and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Music therapy is a powerful tool that can significantly benefit senior citizens by addressing their cognitive, emotional, physical, and social needs. By deploying personalized music therapy programs, caregivers and therapists can help seniors enjoy a higher quality of life and improved well-being.