Music has a unique ability to connect people to memories, emotions, and moments from across their lives. For older adults, music therapy is increasingly recognised as a powerful, evidence-informed approach to supporting emotional wellbeing, cognitive function, and overall quality of life. From familiar songs that elicit reminiscence to structured musical activities that stimulate cognitive function, music can play a meaningful role in everyday care. When used thoughtfully, music therapy offers a gentle yet effective way to support mood, memory, and engagement, particularly for older people living at home.
What Is Music Therapy?
Music therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses music-based activities to support physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. It may be delivered by a trained music therapist or incorporated informally into daily routines under appropriate guidance.
Music therapy can involve:
- Listening to familiar or meaningful music
- Singing or humming along to songs
- Playing simple instruments or tapping rhythms
- Discussing memories or emotions linked to music
- Using music to support relaxation or movement
For older adults, the focus is not on musical ability but on the emotional and neurological responses that music can evoke.
Why Music Has a Powerful Effect on the Ageing Brain
Music engages multiple brain regions simultaneously, including those responsible for memory, emotion, attention, and movement. Importantly, musical memories are often preserved even when other forms of memory decline.
Key reasons music is so effective include:
- Music activates long-term memory pathways
- Emotional responses to music remain strong with age
- Rhythm supports coordination and movement
- Familiar melodies trigger recognition and recall
- Music stimulates dopamine release, improving mood
Because of this wide-reaching impact, music therapy is particularly valuable for older adults experiencing cognitive changes.
The Emotional Benefits of Music Therapy
Music has a profound effect on mood and emotional well-being, which is especially important for older adults who may experience loneliness, anxiety, or low mood.
Improving mood and reducing anxiety - Listening to preferred music can calm the nervous system, slow breathing, and reduce feelings of agitation. Gentle or familiar music often creates a sense of comfort and safety.
Supporting emotional expression - Music can help older adults express feelings that may be difficult to articulate verbally. Songs linked to meaningful life events can prompt reflection and emotional release.
Reducing feelings of isolation - Shared musical experiences encourage connection, whether through singing together, listening with a companion, or discussing memories associated with songs.
These emotional benefits contribute to improved overall well-being and can make daily routines feel more enjoyable and purposeful.
Music Therapy and Memory Support
One of the most compelling uses of music therapy is its ability to support memory and cognitive function. Music can act as a bridge to past experiences, helping older adults reconnect with personal history.
How music supports memory:
- Familiar songs trigger autobiographical memories
- Lyrics provide structured cues that aid recall
- Repetition strengthens neural connections
- Rhythm supports sequencing and attention
For individuals living with dementia, music can prompt recognition of people, places, or experiences even when verbal communication is limited. This can lead to moments of clarity, engagement, and emotional connection that are deeply meaningful for both the individual and their family.
Benefits of Music Therapy for People Living With Dementia
Music therapy is widely used in dementia care because it remains accessible even as cognitive abilities change.
Benefits may include:
- Reduced agitation and restlessness
- Improved mood and emotional stability
- Increased verbal communication or singing
- Enhanced engagement with others
- Reduced reliance on medication for distress in some cases
Music can help structure the day, ease transitions between activities, and create moments of calm or joy. When introduced gently and tailored to personal preferences, it often becomes a valued part of daily care.
Using Music to Support Daily Routines
Music therapy does not need to be a formal activity to be effective. Integrating music into everyday tasks can enhance routines and reduce stress.
Examples include:
- Playing calming music during personal care to promote relaxation
- Using upbeat songs to encourage movement or exercise
- Listening to familiar tunes during mealtimes to create a positive atmosphere
- Using music in the evening to support wind-down routines
Consistency and familiarity are key. Over time, music can become a cue that signals what is happening next, providing reassurance and structure.
Physical Benefits Linked to Music Therapy
Although often associated with emotional support, music therapy can also encourage physical movement and coordination.
Music can support:
- Gentle exercise through rhythm and tempo
- Improved balance and coordination
- Motivation to move or participate in activities
- Reduced stiffness when paired with movement
Simple actions such as clapping, tapping the feet, or swaying to music can support mobility while remaining accessible to individuals with limited strength or endurance.
Personalising Music Therapy for Older Adults
Personalisation is essential for music therapy to be effective. Musical preferences are deeply individual and often linked to life experiences.
When choosing music, consider:
- Songs from the person’s young adulthood
- Cultural or religious music that holds meaning
- Music linked to significant life events
- Genres or artists they previously enjoyed
- Preferences for tempo, volume, and style
Avoid assuming preferences based solely on age. Taking time to explore meaningful music ensures the experience feels respectful and engaging rather than generic.
Safety and Considerations When Using Music Therapy
While music therapy is generally safe, it should be used thoughtfully.
Important considerations include:
- Keeping volume at a comfortable level
- Watching for signs of distress or overstimulation
- Avoiding music that triggers negative memories
- Allowing the individual to opt out at any time
- Being mindful of hearing aids or sensory sensitivities
Music should bring a sense of calm or fulfilment, not overwhelm. Observing reactions and adjusting accordingly helps ensure a positive experience.
The Role of Carers in Supporting Music Therapy at Home
Carers play a key role in introducing and maintaining music therapy within daily life. They can help identify meaningful music, observe responses, and adapt activities as needs change. In many cases, experienced home care support can incorporate music into routines in a way that feels natural and person-centred, supporting emotional well-being alongside practical care needs.
Creating a Simple Music Therapy Plan at Home
A structured yet flexible approach can help music therapy become a regular and beneficial part of life.
A simple plan may include:
- Identifying preferred music or playlists
- Choosing specific times of day for music use
- Linking music to particular activities or moods
- Reviewing responses and adjusting selections
- Involving family members where possible
Even small, consistent steps can lead to noticeable improvements in mood and engagement.
Technology and Music Access for Older Adults
Modern technology has made music more accessible than ever. Simple devices can support independence and enjoyment.
Helpful options include:
- Digital radios with preset stations
- Music players with large buttons
- Voice-activated devices for hands-free control
- Personal headphones for focused listening
Choosing user-friendly technology reduces frustration and encourages regular use.
Case Example: Music Reconnecting Memory and Mood
Mrs Harris, aged 81, had become withdrawn and anxious following early-stage dementia. Her family introduced a playlist of songs from her twenties and thirties. Over time, she began singing along, sharing memories linked to the music, and showing improved mood throughout the day. Music became part of her morning routine, helping her feel calmer and more engaged. With gentle support, music therapy helped restore moments of connection and joy in her daily life.
Conclusion
Music therapy offers a powerful, accessible way to support mood, memory, and overall well-being in older adults. By engaging emotional and cognitive pathways, music can create moments of connection, calm, and recognition that enrich daily life. Whether used to support routines, encourage movement, or evoke cherished memories, music has the potential to make a meaningful difference. When integrated thoughtfully into home life and, where appropriate, supported by knowledgeable care professionals, music therapy can become a valuable part of holistic, person-centred care for older adults.
FAQs: Music Therapy for Older Adults
Q: Does music therapy require a trained therapist?
A: Formal music therapy should be delivered by a trained professional, but informal music-based activities can still provide benefits when used thoughtfully at home.
Q: How often should music therapy be used?
A: Regular, short sessions are often most effective. This might mean daily listening or incorporating music into existing routines.
Q: Can music therapy help with depression in older adults?
A: Music can support mood, emotional expression, and engagement, which may help reduce symptoms of low mood when used alongside appropriate medical and social support.
Q: What if someone does not respond positively to music?
A: Preferences vary. It may take time to find suitable music, or music may not be appropriate for everyone. Responses should always guide its use.
