Music Therapy for Older Adults

Music therapy is concerned with maximising quality of life in older adults. Particular attention is given to the development, restoration and/or maintenance of skills to support the person in attaining their highest possible level of functioning. Music therapy is concerned with helping the person to maintain or establish a sense of control within his/her environment. 

Music therapy can:

•        stimulate social interaction
•        reduce agitation and wandering
•        increase participation
•        provide stimulation
•        support memory skills
•        support reality orientation and reminiscence
•        improve mood and emotional wellbeing
•        reduce feelings of isolation
•        reduce feelings of pain
•        promote and maintain communication skills
•        promote and maintain physical skills

 

Music therapy can also help caregivers

•        reduce their own stress and anxiety
•        re-establish/maintain positive relationships with their family member

Music therapy has been found to be effective for older adults who have suffered from a stroke, mental illness, and/or dementia. Research has found music therapy is one of the few activities which people in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease, can participate in.

 

What does a music therapist do?

Similar to other Allied Health Professionals, music therapists follow a procedure of referral, assessment, goal setting, intervention and evaluation. This makes them different to musicians who provide music for entertainment.

Music therapists see clients both individually and/or within groups.

Music therapy sessions can consist of a range of activities, including:

•        listening to music,
•        moving/dancing to music
•        singing familiar songs
•        song writing,
•        instrument playing
•        improvising.
•        reminiscing/life reviewing

Previous musical experience?

No prior musical experience is needed in order to benefit from music therapy.