The Benefits of Alternative Therapies Such as Music or Art Therapy

Providing senior loved ones with options to represent themselves and gain new ways of expression often allows them to live healthier, happier lives. There is a variety of alternative therapies, such as group therapy, dance therapy, and even dramatic arts therapy where seniors can engage with others and find a way to express themselves.

The most common types of therapy, however, are art and music therapy. These alternative therapies allow senior loved ones to process their emotions healthily.

What are Music and Art Therapy?

The idea of alternative therapies is to set aside sessions for these activities, giving those who are participating an environment where they can have the space and resources to express themselves.

Through art, seniors can use various tools to recreate a memory or express something that they desire to do or feel. It may not always be easy for loved ones to say what they are trying to express. However, art allows them another outlet. 

With music therapy, seniors get to listen to music or play their desired instruments. Other types of music therapy allow them to write their songs and take advantage of self-expression through their composition. The greatest thing about music therapy is that talent is not required, just a willingness to participate.

Benefits of Art and Music Therapy

By utilizing art and music therapy, seniors will experience the following benefits:

1. Emotional Release

When seniors take on music and art therapy, they can find new ways to express themselves and their emotions. These types of sessions provide an outlet for seniors to live healthier, happier lives, express thoughts, dreams, and even memories that make them happy and help improve their quality of life. 

2. Increased Dopamine Levels

These alternative therapies can help in the release of dopamine in the body, which can make seniors happier. This neurotransmitter in the brain sends chemical messages throughout the body that will impact mood, movement, and other body functions. Having increased levels of dopamine also prevent illnesses like depression and anxiety. 

3. Focus Redirection

If seniors have illnesses that affect their memory, music therapy, especially, can help trigger memories and reactions. The music and sounds that they experience will become familiar and be associated with different activities or experiences. Certain sounds will start to have a psychological effect where they focus on their task once they hear it. 

This is also true with art therapy. Those in the session will receive a task and will start to focus on that project. Being able to redirect their attention to the task at hand until it is finished helps build focus that will last in all situations. 

Senior Helpers Can Provide In-Home Care Services for Your Loved Ones

Senior Helpers of Las Vegas is available to serve seniors living in Laughlin, Henderson, Boulder City, Indian Springs, and Pahrump areas. We offer specialized care for seniors who are transitioning from a healthcare facility back to their home, as well as provide companion care for those who are relatively independent but desire social interaction.

Feel free to reach out to our team today so that we can assist you and your loved ones. We look forward to hearing from you soon.