Music therapy is an alternative health treatment that’s gaining increasing popularity, and studies show this form of therapy could be especially helpful for seniors. Whether your aging parent is playing or listening to music, music therapy could help him or her in the following ways.
1. Pain Control
Many seniors live with arthritis or other chronic conditions that make pain a part of their daily lives. Even seniors who don’t have chronic pain probably notice more aches and sore spots. While many seniors turn to over-the-counter medicines or prescriptions to ease the pain, the use of these medicines may have a long-term effect on the body. Seniors who participate in passive music therapy (i.e., listening to music) have reported a significant reduction in pain compared to days when they don’t listen to music. It’s believed listening to music produces endorphins and oxytocin, both of which reduce pain.
A home caregiver can help your loved one develop a variety of strategies for reducing pain. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional at-home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Self-Esteem
Some music therapy programs give seniors the chance to learn to play an instrument. Learning new skills like playing an instrument is a great way for anyone to achieve self-actualization and boost self-esteem. This is especially important for seniors, since there may be limited opportunities for people in this age group to enhance their self-esteem.
3. Entertainment
Many seniors find themselves spending a great deal of time at home, disconnected from peers, friends, and family and wishing they had a chance to partake in fun activities. Music is an integral cord of connection through us all. Everyone can enjoy listening to music and participating in music therapy. Trying music therapy offers a new way for seniors to have something entertaining to enjoy. It also promotes interactions with others.
Listening to music is just one of the many ways older adults can boost their wellbeing. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust Lincoln senior home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.
4. Mental Stimulation
The use of music therapy can be a great way to provide mental stimulation for seniors. Seniors who partake in mentally stimulating activities like reading, playing games, listening to music, or even playing music tend to have more active minds and are less forgetful.
Music therapy can be particularly beneficial for older adults living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of age-related dementia. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Lincoln families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at (916) 226-3737 today.