There is a plethora of research about the power of music, and yet few of us would say that music is central to our daily lives.
The power of music in our lives
Research from the University of London says “music continues to offer powerful potential for enhancing health and well-being in old age. Active music-making has been found to provide a source of enhanced social cohesion, enjoyment, personal development, and empowerment, and to contribute to recovery from depression and maintenance of personal well-being throughout these latter stages of adult life.”
Listening to music
Interestingly some research says that just listening to music helps to keep our brains young. John Hopkins Medical School in the US says listening to music provides a total brain workout and can reduce anxiety, blood pressure, and pain as well as improve sleep quality, mood, mental alertness, and memory.
Playing music
Did you used to play an instrument? The benefits of actually playing an instrument or singing appear to be even greater, according to research reported on by the BBC. Researchers compared the cognitive data of those in the study who engaged in music in some way in their lives, with those who never had. Their results showed that people who played musical instruments benefitted the most, which may be because of the “multiple cognitive demands” of the activity. Playing the piano or keyboard appeared to be particularly beneficial, while brass and woodwind instruments were good too. So maybe it’s time to dust off the piano or guitar! And it’s never too late to have a few lessons.
Music and dementia
And there is further evidence that for people living with dementia music can be a real source of joy and unlock happy memories. Dementia UK cites research that shows music can help reduce heart rate and blood pressure, relieve muscle tension and help people manage pain.It can also trigger feel-good hormones called endorphins, which may ease depression, anxiety and agitation. Music can have a positive impact on people’s mental abilities, too, improving:
- attention and concentration
- cognition (thinking)
- memory
- speech and non-verbal communication skills
Music can also help to encourage physical exercise, dance and movement.
Tips for listening to music with someone with dementia
Music can be used in a group or individually – both at home and in care settings. You could try:
- listening and singing along to favourite pieces of music
- listening to music played through headphones
- taking part in a music or singing group or choir
- playing instruments
- listening to a live performance
- compiling a personal playlist that they can listen to on a smart speaker, mobile phone or tablet
- watching a favourite musical
- listening to a radio station that plays music from the past
Getting involved
You might just be prompted to put on some of your favourite music to enjoy listening to, or rekindle playing an instrument you have in the comfort of your own home. But if you would like to participate in a group we’re lucky to have several music and singing groups in Sussex. Some are more general, others designed for people who are living with particular conditions such as dementia or Parkinsons.
Here are some that we know of locally:
Check our your local Age UK for details of other music groups and choirs near you, and get listening, singing and playing! If you need any more help with further signposting, or would like help from our team to accompany you to a group just give us a call.
We also have some fabulous singers and musicians on the team if you would like to make some music together!