A classic song can be more than something to hum along to in the car. The best ones can carry cherished memories and infuse the feeling those memories carry into any room in which they play. For seniors in assisted living, especially those struggling with memory loss, music can be a powerful tool with an array of benefits to their wellbeing. From physical to mental health, a tune can keep an older soul sharp both in body and mind. 

How Music Fosters Wellbeing in Older Adults

1. Encourages Exercise

Exercise is a crucial component of overall wellness at every stage of a person’s life. Physical activity for seniors, in particular, can foster muscle strength, flexibility, heart health, bone density, and balance, all of which combat issues that lead to a loss of independence and health. Music can be a substantial motivator for exercise among seniors, as it can foster positivity and set a beat for a workout or activity. 

2. Improves Memory

A favorite track can transport you back to another time with just seconds of melody. For seniors with dementia, the sentimentality that music can carry can be imperative to memory retention. Even for those in later stages of the disease, a familiar tune can brighten their spirits and even recall a sense of mental clarity—even if very briefly. Assisted living communities will often make music a central part of their culture to keep these memories alive.

3. Decreases Isolation

A significant contributing factor to physical and mental decline in older adults is a barrier to communication. For some, it can be the isolation of living alone after a spouse dies; for others, it’s the loss of strong language abilities. In many cases, music can be a fundamental bridge of communication for seniors. 

Music not only enriches one’s life, but it also provides an environment that fosters mental stimulation and physical activity. Research also shows that regularly listening to music can help improve cognition and language abilities for those with dementia. A song can spark discussions and create connections anywhere you go, but in assisted living communities, it can be a particularly poignant common ground for its residents. 

Memory care can be a difficult step for any family to take for their loved one, but a community like Country Villa Assisted Living makes this transition a little easier. Their staff aims to provide quality care to its residents with senior activities and assisted living services. With compassionate care, this retirement community will treat your loved one like family. For more information about their Omro, WI, community, visit their website or give them a call today at (920) 685-0607.