A career in music therapy and the creative arts in a senior living community can be a fulfilling and meaningful experience.
If you have a passion for the arts and caring for people, our independent living, assisted living and memory care community may be an excellent place for you to begin or expand your career.
Our current team members are professional, empathetic, and have built strong relationships with one another and our residents.
If you want to grow personally and professionally, read on to learn how you could join a team that feels like family.
Steps to pursue an arts and music therapy career
The first step in building your career in music therapy and creative arts is to get the necessary education and training.
A bachelor’s or equivalency degree in music therapy, along with 1200 hours of clinical work completed in a 6 month internship is required to become eligible to sit for the music therapy board exam. Once the board exam is passed, then you are considered an MT-BC, or Board-Certified Music Therapist. Additionally, some states also require licensure.
Kensington Park requires their Director of Creative Art Therapies to be a Board-Certified and Licensed Music Therapist.
Once you have the proper training, seek opportunities to gain experience working with seniors, such as volunteering at a senior living community.
You can also seek out internships or part-time work at senior living communities, even if you don’t start in the department you want to ultimately be in. Experience in the senior care environment will help when you’re ready to apply for a music therapist position.
Attend conferences and events related to music therapy and senior care to meet professionals in the field. Joining professional organizations can also help you build your network.
Consider developing a specialty in a specific area of music therapy or creative arts such as working with dementia residents or using art therapy techniques.
You should stay informed about the latest research and trends in music therapy and creative arts in senior living. It also helps to have at least cursory knowledge about common conditions such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
Continuing your education and becoming a lifelong learner will help you stay current and improve your skills.
How your passion for music can help seniors
Sharing your passion with seniors in a senior living community can help improve their overall well-being and quality of life. Whether you’re a music therapist or creative arts practitioner, your skills and expertise can make a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors.
Improved mood and stress reduction
Listening to music and engaging in creative activities can help seniors relax, feel happier, and reduce stress levels. These activities are positive distractions from negative thoughts and worries, and allow seniors to focus on the present moment.
Stimulates memories
Music and art can trigger memories and help seniors reminisce about past experiences, which can be particularly helpful for those with dementia.
Music and art also stimulate multiple senses, including sight, sound, and touch, which is what helps seniors better recall memories.
Promotes socialization
Participating in music and art activities in a senior living community can promote a sense of belonging and community in the residents.
The arts can bring people together, which helps seniors socialize and connect with others, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Social events and activities are one of the major benefits of a senior living community.
Enhances cognitive function
Art and music can stimulate the brain and help seniors maintain their cognitive function, particularly in areas such as memory and attention. Creative activities are known to promote cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, and divergent thinking skills.
Boosts physical health
Engaging in creative activities can have physical benefits, such as improving dexterity, fine motor skills, and improved immune function.
Through dance and music activities, seniors are encouraged to move their bodies, which helps mobility. These activities also help to improve their quality of life as they can have something to look forward to.
Provides a sense of purpose
Participating in music and art activities can give seniors a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Finishing a piece of artwork or performing a piece of music tends to offer a sense of accomplishment.
Creating music and art can also boost seniors’ self-esteem and help maintain their emotional well-being, promote socialization and community, and provide opportunities for self-expression and creativity.
Is a career in music therapy and creative arts right for me?
If you’re empathetic and passionate about music and making a positive difference in the lives of seniors, this could be a great career path for you.
As a music therapist, you will have the opportunity to positively impact seniors’ lives and improve their emotional, cognitive, and physical health. It is also a leadership role where you can build the music program, curriculum, and lead the department.
Music therapy is a fulfilling career that involves building relationships with residents, which can be an enriching experience.
Connecting with seniors through music and art can build trust, establish rapport, and allow you to have fun together.
You will also have a chance to collaborate with other health care professionals, such as physicians, social workers, and occupational therapists to provide a comprehensive approach to care.
Join our team and make a positive impact on the lives of others
Kensington Park is an independent living, assisted living and memory care community that offers our residents a comforting environment, compassionate caregivers, and high-acuity care.
Our Promise is to love and care for our residents and team members as we do our own.
Some of the benefits you will receive when you join our team include:
- Competitive salaries
- Health, Life, 401K & other benefits starting at 32 hrs/wk
- Generous paid time off
- Employee Assistance Program
- Complimentary lunches and dinners
Check out our blog to learn more about our independent, assisted living and memory care community, services, upcoming events, and volunteer positions.
Contact us today to speak with our team manager about employment opportunities!