Integrating Music Therapy into Daily Care Routines
Hi everyone, Sophia here!
Lately, I’ve been exploring different ways to bring a sense of calm, joy, and connection into my daily caregiving routine—and one thing that’s made a surprising difference is music.
I came across some articles about music therapy and how it can benefit older adults, especially those dealing with dementia, anxiety, or chronic pain. The research is fascinating. It turns out that music can help reduce agitation, boost memory recall, and even improve sleep. So, I started playing soft jazz in the mornings while helping my dad get ready, and let me tell you—the difference in his mood was noticeable.
Have any of you tried incorporating music into your care routines? What kinds of music work best for your loved ones? I’d love to hear your suggestions for playlists or favorite artists. Do you notice a change in behavior or energy levels after a music session?
Let’s share what’s worked and maybe inspire each other to try something new in our daily caregiving journey.
Warmly, Sophia
Hi Sophia,
Thank you so much for sharing this. I can honestly relate! I started using music with my mom during her morning routine, and it’s become such a peaceful part of our day. She always loved gospel and old-school soul, so I made a playlist of her favorites. It’s amazing how her face lights up when a familiar song comes on—sometimes she even sings along, which is such a beautiful moment to witness.
It also helps calm her when she’s feeling anxious or restless. I’ve noticed soft instrumental piano in the evenings works well for winding down. It’s such a gentle way to bring comfort and familiarity into her day.
I’d love to hear what others are playing too. Always open to new suggestions!
Warmly,
Catherine
Hi Sophia,
Thank you for sharing this beautiful experience! It’s amazing how music can gently shift the mood and bring comfort your story about playing soft jazz for your dad really touched me. I’ve had similar moments with my aunt; she lights up when I play old-school soul and sometimes even sings along. It’s like the music unlocks a part of her that’s still so vibrant.
I haven’t tried jazz much, but now I’m inspired to explore it. Do you have any go-to tracks or artists you’d recommend? I’d love to build a playlist based on what’s working for others here. Thanks again for starting this uplifting conversation!
Warmly,
Sydney
Hello Catherine and Sydney,
Thank you both so much for sharing your beautiful experiences—it truly warmed my heart. Isn’t it incredible how something as simple as music can create such powerful moments of connection?
Catherine, I absolutely loved hearing how gospel and old-school soul music lights up your mom’s face. That image of her singing along gave me goosebumps—what a gift to witness those moments. Music truly has a way of cutting through everything else and reaching the soul. I’d love to know some of her favorite songs—maybe we could start a shared playlist thread here?
Sydney, your story about your aunt made me smile too! I’m thrilled that you’re inspired to try jazz—it’s been such a calming presence in our routine. Some of my go-to artists include Bill Evans for his gentle piano pieces, Ella Fitzgerald’s softer ballads, and Chet Baker for his soothing trumpet and vocals. Each has a way of easing tension and adding comfort to the day.
I love how we’re all discovering how music can be a gentle form of therapy—both for our loved ones and for ourselves. Let’s keep the suggestions coming—I’d be so excited to hear what others are playing too!
Warmly,
Sophia