Research proves that making music together as a group, especially for older people, offers a massive number of benefits that can significantly enhance their quality of life. This collective musical experience can be a powerful and emotionally enriching activity, making it a perfect choice for seniors who might be feeling isolated at home.
Social Connection: Singing as a group fosters a sense of belonging and community. For older people, who may sometimes feel isolated or lonely, this can be a vital lifeline. It's an opportunity to make new friends, strengthen existing bonds, and build a support network. This is particularly important when an older person may have lost their partner.
Emotional Well-being: Music has the unique ability to evoke emotions and memories. Singing songs that remind participants of past experiences can trigger positive feelings, reduce anxiety, and provide a talking point and an emotional outlet. I have seen this happen and the joy it brings more times than I can count when working with older adults.
Cognitive Stimulation: Singing engages the brain on multiple levels. Learning lyrics, melodies, and harmonies exercises memory and cognitive functions. It's a fun and effective way to keep the mind active and alert.
Physical Benefits: Singing requires controlled breathing and vocalization. It's a low-impact physical activity that can improve lung function, posture, and overall well-being. For older individuals, this can be a gentle form of physical exercise, and of course a little bit of dancing is a wonderful option for some more mobile members of the group.
Stress Reduction: Singing releases endorphins, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. It's a wonderful tool for managing the everyday stresses of life and can improve the quality of sleep.
Communication Skills: Group singing encourages effective communication. Participants learn to listen, follow instructions, and coordinate with others. These skills are transferable to daily life and can help in other aspects of social interaction. Our groups provide a lovely opportunity to make new friends.
Sense of Achievement: Successfully singing a song or mastering a harmony can be incredibly fulfilling. It boosts self-esteem and provides a sense of achievement, regardless of the participant's musical background.
This Inner Voice offers wonderful, interactive online music sessions that are available to care homes and individuals at home who have a good internet connection and any necessary help with the tech. Sessions are led by Serenna Wagner, an experienced Music Therapist, multi-instrumentalist and professional singer. Please get in touch to find out more - with no pressure or unwanted marketing involved! info@thisinnervoice.com
Serenna Wagner - Director, This Inner Voice
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