Music therapy offers a wide range of benefits for aging individuals or those who experience memory impairment. Julia McCarren, LPMT, MT-BC, our Director of Creative Arts Therapies, leads music therapy sessions for our residents in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. Check out the video below or click HERE to watch what her sessions are like for Memory Care.
At Kensington Park, we believe in the versatility and effectiveness of music therapy as a complementary approach to conventional healthcare practices. Some of the benefits of music therapy sessions include:
- Emotional Expression and Regulation: Music can serve as a medium for expressing and processing emotions. Through improvisation, songwriting, or listening to music, individuals can explore and regulate their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
- Stress Reduction: Listening to soothing music or engaging in musical activities can help reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety or undergoing medical procedures.
- Enhanced Communication Skills: Music therapy can improve verbal and nonverbal communication skills. For individuals with speech or language disorders, music can provide an alternative means of expression and communication.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Engaging with music stimulates various areas of the brain, which can help improve cognitive function, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. This is especially relevant for individuals with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or traumatic brain injuries.
- Motor Skills Development: Playing musical instruments or engaging in rhythmic activities can promote the development and refinement of fine and gross motor skills. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with physical disabilities or motor coordination difficulties.
- Social Interaction: Music therapy provides opportunities for social interaction and collaboration. Group music-making activities foster a sense of belonging and connection, as well as teamwork and cooperation skills.
For questions about our Music Therapy Program, please email Julia McCarren, Director of Creative Arts Therapies, at JMcCarren@kensingtonsl.com.