Music Therapy for Elder Care
Elder Care in Kentwood MI
“Where words fail, music speaks.”
– Hans Christian Andersen
Music therapy is a powerful, simple intervention technique for many caregivers across the globe. It is used in various clinical and home care settings as a way for managing many health-related
issues, including stress, pain, memory enhancement, and social wellness. People of all ages can benefit from music therapy. This makes it a perfect addition to home elderly care, as everyone can be involved.
Music Therapy and the Elderly
Research has found that many older individuals respond well to the sensory stimulation music provides. This is especially true in individuals who are resistant to other forms of intervention. In addition to sensory and psychological benefits, music is also a viable way of encouraging movement. Music is a familiar, non-threatening medium to many people, and can often have a profoundly positive impact on the condition of elders.
Professional Music Therapy vs Home-Managed Music Therapy
Because of its proven efficiency as a therapeutic tool, many people have gotten into the musical therapist career. Professional musical therapists work in much the same way as any other therapist does. They assess their client’s needs, come up with a treatment plan, and then deliver that treatment at set times through the week or month. They often have a wide range of instruments, music, and activities to try in order to find what works best.
While professional therapists likely have a much wider range of tools and training at their disposal, sometimes hiring a professional isn’t feasible for families with elders in a home care setting. Sometimes it is too expensive, there are mobility issues, or it’s a simple case of no therapists being in the area. In these cases, music therapy can still be adequately provided. Both family members and home caregivers can be involved in making sure the elder gets their needed session of music.
Trying Music Therapy At Home
No one type of music is “appropriate” for music therapy to work. Selection often comes from knowledge of the elder’s personal tastes, as well as the mood family members and home caregivers wish to provide. Often times, music that was known to make a person happy earlier in their life will have the same impact. However, stepping a little out of the “comfort zone” is okay. After all, almost everyone likes to mix things up a little. The music that eventually works may come as a total surprise!
Music therapy isn’t just about popping on a beloved CD or playlist either! If able, caregivers can encourage their elders to try their hand at some easy-to-use instruments. Playing instruments, especially in the company of others, can have huge psychological and physical benefits. Examples of elder-friendly instruments include small drums, xylophones, hand bells, and egg shakers. The key is to keep experimenting and researching until the right method is found.
If you or someone you know needs help with elder care services in Kentwood, MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information.
Source
http://www.musictherapy.org/assets/1/7/MT_Alzheimers_2006.pdf
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_music.html
http://www.musicworxinc.com/therapy/instruments.php
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-musical-self/201101/5-easy-ways-make-music-therapy-work-you
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