No one can dispute the power of music to ‘soothe the wild beast’. It has the ability to influence – even alter – our moods for the good. Just the other music turned my day around, reminding me to take a deep breath and enjoy what life in all of its perplexity has to offer.
I had been rushing to pick up some last minute items in the grocery story, and feeling stressed, was impatient with other drivers in the parking lot as well as with those who just left empty shopping carts by their cars. Cursing under my breath, I got out of my car and headed towards the store’s front door where a young woman was playing an xylophone and singing a lovely song.
I didn’t pay attention to the words but I did hear the music. It reminded me of a windy breeze (actually like what I might expect from a well-made wind chime). I stopped cursing and fretting long enough to remember that even on days like the one I was having, there was an underlying ‘tone’ that could not be shaken by life’s imperfections.
The melody gave me a chance to remember that sometimes things just don’t go my way, according to my schedule, but they are going/moving just the same. What a relief!
This reminded me that music can also uplift the often stressful life of a caregiver AND the one he or she is taking care of. Used as music therapy it can offer many benefits beyond the beauty of its sound.
In assisted living situations, hospitals, and nursing homes, studies have shown that people are finding that music can improve one’s state of mind, literally, by improving memory and enhancing social skills.
According to Joyce Apperson, a Registered Nurse and Geriatric Care Manager who is an advocate for seniors as well as the founder and President of Caring Connection, Inc. in Maryland, when songs from a particular era are played, seniors often recall memories associated with that time.
She wrote, “Singing along with songs from their younger days has produced benefits among many seniors in the later stages of dementia.” It can also help improve overall brain function as well.
Singing, she went on to note, can help improve facial music use for those who have had a stroke or suffer from central nervous disorders. And this can lead to improved capacity to communicate with others.
Music can enhance the quality of a caregiver’s life, too.
One inside the store I found myself going back out one more time – while shopping – to hear a bit more of this woman’s music. It lifted my spirits which in turn helped me to be more patient.
To read Apperson’s complete article, click here.
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