Five Reasons Music Programs Are Great for Seniors
September 16, 2019
Music has been delighting its listeners and challenging its performers since the dawn of time. While you may think music is only a tool to move the emotions and pass some time, science has discovered that music may have a more critical role in the human experience than initially understood, especially for seniors.
With the newest research on the benefits of music, the evidence suggests that a musical program could be the perfect activity for seniors who want to improve their overall quality of life. The Allure Group, fully attuned to that, regularly hosts such programs, as when Something Extra, Yale University’s all-female a capella group, appeared at the Bedford Center in March, or when the Harlem Center observed Black History Month in February with a program featuring the music of William Spaulding.
Here are five science-backed ways music benefits seniors:
- Music Enhances Memory
Several studies published by the National Institute of Health report a definite link between memory retention for Alzheimer’s patients and musical involvement, though more studies are needed to learn why.
- Music Counters the Effects of Aging
The summary results for the Reviewed Wellness Enhancement Studies found that seniors who took piano lessons showed a significant improvement on tests evaluating dexterity, processing speeds and cognitive function. That progress reversed itself three months after quitting the lessons.
John Hopkins also reports that music can help keep the brain young.
Another important study found that “music intervention may provide an effective complementary approach for the relief of acute, procedural, and cancer/chronic pain in the medical setting.”
- Music Improves the Perception of Quality of Life
As you age, it becomes more challenging to participate in all the things you once enjoyed. Even the simplest of tasks can become a burden. Music may combat the perceived diminishment in seniors’ quality of life.
Studies found that seniors that played an instrument or were involved in choral groups reported higher morale, decreased loneliness, greater emotional and physical well-being, reduced levels of depression, improved quality of life and increased social wellness.
- Playing Music Reduces and Reverses the Effects of Stress
Seniors have plenty of issues to stress over as they face the many challenges of aging. It is well-known that music has the power to soothe the nerves and bring peace to the soul.
A large study conducted by McGill University finally “proves” the benefits of music to fight stress. It was discovered that music could be more powerful “than prescription drugs in reducing anxiety.”
- Clinical Trials Suggest Music May Improve Immune Function
As you age, your body can become more susceptible to disease and illness. However, getting involved in a music program may improve seniors’ health and increase their longevity.
Many studies have shown that music can improve the overall health of senior citizens, resulting in fewer doctor visits, increased production of immunoglobulin, an increase in natural killer cells (which fight cancer) and lower levels of cortisol in the bloodstream.
The results are overwhelming: Seniors can benefit significantly from incorporating music into their life. Music programs don’t only aid the memory of seniors, but they also show promise in improving their health, immune system, well-being, happiness, stress levels, ability to manage pain and so much more.