Improving the health of seniors is the goal of professional nursing care. Medicine is not the only treatment available to ensure a good wellbeing. According to scientific studies, music also contributes to make them more active. Dr. Julene Johnson, cognitive neuroscientist and professor at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), explores the connection between singing in a choir and senior health. She will build upon earlier studies and see how choral groups build up neural connections in seniors.

1. The Musical Effect:
Using Music to Promote Senior
Health
Improving the health of seniors is the goal of professional
nursing care. Medicine is not the only treatment available to ensure a
good
wellbeing.
According
to
scientific
studies,
music
also
contributes to make them more active. Dr. Julene Johnson, cognitive
neuroscientist and professor at the University of California, San
Francisco (UCSF), explores the connection between singing in a choir
and senior health. She will build upon earlier studies and see how
choral groups build up neural connections in seniors.

2. More than Enjoyment
There are many documented effects of music on general life and
welfare. It soothes anxiety and relaxes people. It also strengthens
communication, as a simple tune can encourage interaction even among
people speaking different languages. Another positive effect of music
lies on the brain. A Swiss study support this, Dr. Mélany Hars noted
the improvement of cognitive function among seniors who participated
in a music-based training program.
Enhancing Brain Development
How does music affect the development of the brain? Scientists
suggest that music stimulates the brain and causes brainwaves to
synchronise with the rhythm. Slow melodies slow down the brainwaves
in a pattern generally associated with the meditative and hypnotic
states. Fast beats, on the other hand, influence the brain to
concentrate sharply and make it more alert.
Creating a Musical Routine for Seniors
This growing body of research regarding music’s effects on seniors’
wellbeing makes it an important part of a healthcare program.
Nursing homes and retirement communities should keep up musicbased activities. This not only enhances the brain’s function and
prevents the onset of dementia and other memory-related ailments.
Music also increases positive interaction among seniors.

3. Dancing, for example, makes them work together to execute
movement properly. This spurs communication and connection among
groups because they’re working for the same goal. It minimises any
shyness felt at the start, making them more likely to converse with
each other. Social interaction will make them more comfortable to
build friendships.
Ideas for Creating Music-Based Programs
Other than dancing, there are many activities a nursing home or
retirement village can implement. A regular choral performance for
the holidays keeps them active and cheerful. Exercises with
accompanying music also help. Seniors will be more likely to remember
routines set against background music that will cue them in the
patterns they need to do.
Offering programs on teaching seniors how to play different
instruments also work. This can challenge them to learn the piano,
drums, flute, and other musical instruments. Monitor the activities of
each senior and see if music plays a part in improving their health and
wellbeing. This helps modify care plans to meet their individual needs.
Resources:
http://www.ucsf.edu/news/2013/07/107471/healing-harmoniestesting-power-music-improve-senior-health
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/11/29/us-seniors-brainidUSBRE9AS0SW20131129
http://news.stanford.edu/news/2006/may31/brainwave-053106.html