Page 85 - Senior Link Magazine Fall 2017- Online Magazine

LIVE MUSIC

LIFE ENHANCEMENT

Many seniors have indicated that they prefer living with
others close to their age rather than living alone. Living
in a community of senior citizens can ease stress by related actions such as dancing, singing, playing
reducing many of the everyday responsibilities of living at musical instruments, listening to recorded music and
home. With fewer obligations and a safer environment, a participating in live musical performances can spark
community resident can enjoy more time to relax, develop conversations that improve relationships with friends
new friendships, make new memories and focus on being and family members.
productive.
As a musician performing for seniors, I have the
In communities of independent living, assisted living, privilege of witnessing firsthand the positive effects
memory care, and nursing care facilities, residents find of live music. Residents participate by smiling,
numerous activities in which they can participate. These clapping, and singing along. Often they take part in
productive pastimes help eliminate boredom, keep conversations about the original artists, recording
minds active and strengthen bodies. National Institute dates, and content of songs. I’ve observed seniors
on Aging studies reveal that seniors who are intentionally expressing feelings they haven’t experienced in many
active - working, volunteering, and/or engaged in social years, to staff and to each other. Live music is not just
interaction (including games, outings and especially stimulating entertainment, but it almost universally
music) are less likely to develop certain health problems fosters joy and well-being. It is a wonderful resource for
including dementia. Getting involved in the activities of a all senior living centers to consider.
community not only strengthens mental and emotional
health, but specific physical improvements can be Tom Skinner is a full time traveling musician who
experienced as well, including the lessening of pain and specializes in music for seniors.
discomfort without the use of more medication.

There is an added benefit to living in a community which
offers regular live music entertainment. According to
research, physician evaluations, and professionals in the Tom Skinner
field of elder care and senior living, music does indeed Guitarist/Vocalist
improve senior living in profound ways. Music stimulates
feelings of well-being by arousing powerful memories Specializing in
and stirring emotions. It is known that music therapy can Classic Country
increase brain chemicals that stimulate positive feelings TomSkinnerMusician.com
in seniors experiencing memory loss. Also, music helps tomskinnermusician@gmail.com
to improve the recall of recent events, positive changes 806-549-5532
in mood and an increase in self-sufficiency. Other music-

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