Here at Conservatory At Alden Bridge, music therapy is part of our Celebrations Activities and Events. In fact, we actively encouraged our residents to take part in this therapeutic activity as it brings about a number of benefits. Music therapy is a clinical treatment that’s backed by evidence to improve the mental and emotional health of patients. Research has shown that patients who undergo music therapy experience a higher quality of life and have even seen a marked improvement in their health conditions. In addition, what makes music therapy so well-liked is due to its accessibility. All it needs is music, songs, or musical instruments if available. Therefore, we highly recommend music therapy for the following reasons.
Improve Cognitive Function and Memory Skills
Activities such as playing the instrument and learning to sing allow the brain to work, which stimulates blood flow in the area, leading to the brain being kept active and sharp. An active brain means that cognitive decline will be slowed down. However, if you are not too keen on the above-mentioned activities, simply listening to music can also produce the same effect. This is because you will have to think, memorize and feel the lyrics, thus activating the part of the brain in control of memory retention. We recommend playing old songs in order to help trigger happy memories.
An Outlet for Expression of Emotions
Some people may not be comfortable interacting with others or have a challenging time communicating with the staff and residents. In such a case, music therapy is a fantastic activity that provides a non-judgmental environment for individuals to express themselves and relay their emotions. Since our music therapy sessions take place in a group setting, this also allows residents to improve their social language skills through conversational lyrics, body language, and group interactions. At the end of the day, we can assure you that residents will be more engaged in the community.
Relieves Stress and Anxiety
One of the main reasons people undertake music therapy is to alleviate stress and manage negative emotions better. Scientific studies have shown that music containing 60 beats per minute allows the brain to synchronize with the beats, causing it to produce alpha brain waves, which put the mind at ease. Other effects include a lower heart rate and cortisol level, an increase in endorphins, and reduced emotional stress. As such, if residents are currently under many stressful situations, they can benefit from attending music therapy sessions.
Improve Physical Movements
It’s no secret that leading an active lifestyle is the key to being healthy and living longer. This may come as a shock, but music therapy can be considered a fitness activity if you count dancing and clapping hands. These low-activity exercises are perfect for residents who aren’t as mobile and require opportunities to be more physically engaged. Tapping their toes and swinging their bodies to catchy tunes can also allow the joints and muscles to be stimulated.
