Music Therapy in Gerontology

Music therapy can help improve or maintain various aspects of health and well-being for adults as they age. Music therapists work with older adults who are experiencing typical effects of aging, as well as those affected by age-related conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, strokes, and cancer. Treatment may occur in a wide range of settings, including adult day centers, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, retirement centers, senior centers, memory care facilities, rehabilitation facilities, Veteran’s Affairs hospitals, hospitals, mental health facilities, and homes. Commonly used music therapy interventions in gerontology include listening to music, music-assisted relaxation, Therapeutic Instrumental Music Performance, active group music therapy interventions, and interventions with family members and caregivers. Research on music therapy in gerontology has revealed numerous benefits of individualized, responsive music therapy interventions and therapeutic interaction with the music therapist. Short-term outcomes of music therapy treatment for older adults often include enhanced cognitive skills, less agitation and anxiety, improved mood, lower systolic blood pressure, and greater quality of life.