The effect of music on mood is well-known. Most of us can think of at least one song that makes us feel happy and brings back good memories. There might also be some that have the opposite effect.
Music is even important for people with dementia, as it can reach a part of their brain that is less damaged by the disease. Likewise, music is also relevant for caregivers. There is also various music therapy approaches that you can use at home to integrate music more into your life.
But sometimes, it can be tough to know where to begin.
The significance of music is strongly associated with memory and with the emotions that people felt when they first heard it. Because of this, finding the right songs for older adults can seem confusing. Thankfully, there are some great approaches that can get you started.
Simply Ask
The first way to find good music is to just ask. Most people will know the types of music that they like or specific songs.
However, asking ‘what do you want to listen to?’ or ‘what type of music do you like?’ is too broad as a question. Most people would struggle to answer that, especially as we often like multiple different styles of music.
Focusing on a narrower question can often be more effective. Potential questions include:
- Do you like country music?
- What was your favorite band when you were a teenager?
- What was your favorite song when you were young?
It’s often easier for people to answer questions when the selection of options is limited, which makes this technique particularly effective. You can also tailor the questions based on the person and which ones they respond the best to.
You can also use the responses to probe for more information. For example, if your family member likes one song from the Beatles, what about other songs? Do they like similar bands from that same era?
Trial and Error
A related approach is to use music as a cue. This could include playing music for your family member and asking whether they like a particular song.
You don’t have to ask either. You’ll often be able to tell by looking at non-verbal cues, like body language and facial expression.
This technique is particularly powerful, as it can help you to find new favorites, ones that the senior enjoys. It will also give you clues into the type of music that your family member is interested in and where to look for more.
Look for Generational Music
Every era had its own classic songs, ones that were popular. These can be a great place to start, even if your family member doesn’t know what type of music they like.
You can also find many CDs, DVDs and online playlists that are tailored around points in time.
- For example, Spotify has decade-based playlists, including 50s, 60s, 70s and much more. There are also related lists like Dance Classics, Classic Legends and 80s Love Songs.
- YouTube is another option. Simply search for something like ‘60s music playlist’ and you’ll find many options.
- You’ll often be able to buy mixed CDs from a specific decade. Amazon is a great place to find those.
- The same is true for songs from particular artists – ‘hits of’ or ‘top 10 songs from’ are good phrases to look for, as such albums will focus on the artist’s most well-known piece.
- Local thrift stores will often some such CDs in stock. You can check out eBay too. You might get lucky with an inexpensive bulk lot.
Various sites also list songs to choose from.
- Daily Caring has short lists of songs and artists for each generation. Each recommendation links through to an album, so it’s a great place to find some new inspiration.
- A Place for Mom offers a sample playlist for patients with dementia.
- The site Rachel Rambach has a list of 42 different songs to check out.
- Golden Carers offers four Spotify playlists, which may be a particularly good place to begin.
There are plenty of other options too. You’re bound to find some fun ones if you spend a little time hunting around.
Focus on Needs
You can also look for music to suit different needs. For example, soothing music can be a good way to reduce agitation. This doesn’t have to be music that your family member knows. In fact, options like mellow classical music and instrumental background music can be powerful.
Another type is music that promotes engagement. This includes songs that are easy to sing along to and that people will know. Amazing Grace is one example, or You Are My Sunshine. Even if your family member only knows the words to the chorus, such music can be very effective. Some of the links above feature this type of song.
You may also find that the best music varies over time. After all, you don’t listen to the same music after a breakup as you do on a regular day. Don’t be afraid to change things up and find new favorites.
More than anything, it’s important to find music that works. People vary dramatically in their musical preference and it might take time to find the right songs. But, once you do find music that works, the effects can be profound.
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