The Power of Music: Enhancing Wellbeing In Care Homes Through Song
Music plays a vital role in improving quality of life in care homes, particularly for residents living with dementia. More than simple entertainment, music is a powerful therapeutic tool that supports emotional well-being, memory, communication, and social connection.
As care homes continue to prioritise person-centered care, music is increasingly recognised as an effective and meaningful way to enhance daily life for older adults.
Music And Dementia Care
The auditory system is often extremely resistant to dementia-type illnesses. People with dementia can often respond better to music than to verbal communication.
It is common to see residents who struggle with conversation still able to:
- Sing along to familiar songs
- Respond emotionally to music from their past
- Tap, clap, or move rhythmically
- Smile or relax when hearing favourite melodies
Music enables residents with dementia to express themselves and connect with others when words are no longer accessible.
Improving Emotional Wellbeing
Music has a proven calming effect, making it especially valuable in elderly care. Gentle, familiar music can help reduce distress during personal care, mealtimes, or periods of rest.
Equally, upbeat and lively music can boost energy levels, improve motivation, and lift low moods. Group music activities such as sing-alongs or live performances often create joyful shared experiences that positively influence the overall atmosphere of the care home.
Not Just Background Noise!
Music should never be treated as background noise in care homes. When used intentionally, it becomes an essential part of high-quality, person-centered care.
For residents living with dementia, music offers comfort, connection, and moments of joy, even as memory and communication change. It reminds us that emotional connection remains possible at every stage of life.
By embracing music as part of everyday care, care homes can significantly enhance well-being, dignity, and quality of life for their residents.
Music At Prestwick Care
We use music as part of our everyday routine at our care homes. From sharing music one-to-one in a resident’s room to residents making music together in a small group, or even a silent disco for the whole home, music is an everyday activity. It is a powerful tool to relieve stress, lift mood, and help with cognitive function.
If you would like to learn more about how we use music in our care, please feel free to get in touch today!