Experts are finding that music for elders and especially for those with dementia have a wide range of benefits including pain reduction and better sleep patterns.

1. The Joyous Benefits of Music
For Elders
By : Karen Everett Watson

2. Can you even imagine a world without music? How many times
have you been in a bad mood and turned on the radio playing a song
that changed your whole perspective?

3. • Music can be better than meds and only has positive side effects!
• Experts are finding that music for elders and especially for those with
dementia have a wide range of benefits including pain reduction and
better sleep patterns.
• But that’s only the beginning to the benefits of music for older adults.

4. Music bonds us with our cohorts
• Listening to the music of our youth is much like attending a really good
class reunion.
• We relate to each other through our shared experiences and through
the music we loved when we were young.
• When a group of elders listens to an old song, they’re transported to
their youth and recognize each other as having similar life
experiences.
• I facilitate reminiscence sessions with elders in assisted living.
• When I put on a CD of old songs, their faces light up and they just love
to sing along.

5. • When a group of elders listens to an old song, they’re transported to
their youth and recognize each other as having similar life
experiences.
• I facilitate reminiscence sessions with elders in assisted living.
• When I put on a CD of old songs, their faces light up and they just love to
sing along. They know all the words and never miss a beat.
• Research has shown that music therapy can reduce stress in dementia
patients.
• The past is a safe place for those with dementia and the music of their
youth helps them relive a time when they were strong and vital.
• It also helps them with communication skills and reduces disruptive
behavior.
• Group music sessions are also an opportunity for elders to interact
socially. But music in the home setting is also very beneficial.

6. Finding the Right Music
• Do you want to know which songs and music will make your loved one
happy? Just ask them.
• What were their favorites when they were younger?
• Patriotic songs and songs of faith are usually a favorite but music taste
is very personal.

7. • You can find a numbers of websites that have the old tunes.
• One website I’ve used for buying CD’s is www.eldersong.com.
• You can also find great music for elders on the radio.
• My mother loves her satellite radio which has stations devoted to the
older genre of music.
• My father prefers western music such as “Gunfighter Ballads” by
Marty Robbins or anything by Jim Reeves.

8. Family Sing Alongs
• Getting the whole family singing together is a wonderful way to enjoy
music.
• One of my favorite memories is riding to church with my kids and my
parents – singing praise songs the whole way there.
• My children (now grown) also grew up listening to my parents’ music.
• All three love the “Gunfighter Ballads” and enjoy hearing the stories
my parents tell of going to local dances and the now famous bands
that played for them.
• Johnny Cash was one of the singers they got to hear! I very pleased
they were exposed to songs of yesterday and the great singers who
made them famous.

9. The Gift That Keeps on Giving
• Long after the music has stopped, the benefits keep on giving.
• When I’ve listened to a favorite tune, I find myself humming it hours
afterwards.
• It’s the same for older adults. Experts say that there are lasting
benefits such as improved cognition, less anxiety and stress release,
all from just listening to music.
• So spread some joy today and encourage your elders to enjoy their
favorite music!

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