Power of music in care

Trish Noakes, Just Better Care chief operations officer, says in the lead up to Christmas, it is important to acknowledge the emotional power of music in soothing and bringing comfort to many people – which is often unrecognised.

“This is particularly the case for many older people or people with dementia – for whom Christmas can be an emotional and sometimes overwhelming time,” Ms Noakes says.

Ms Noakes, writing in the summer edition of Just Better Care’s lifestyle magazine, Just Better Living, claims music therapy is increasingly important in helping people with dementia, and research has shown great outcomes for people, particularly in the late stages of the disease.

“Music can greatly help with social and emotional health and improve overall wellbeing,” she says.

All Just Better Care carers are encouraged to use music as part of their care plans and reportedly find it to be particularly useful in helping calm and soothe clients.

“There is an emotional attachment to the sound of music which brings joy and comfort to that person. In many cases using music as part of the daily activities has proven to be the unsung hero of the day,” she says.

Ms Noakes describes music as the “cradle to the grave” passion, whether we are singing, listening or moving our bodies to it.

“Music gives us hope, lightens our burdens, refreshes our spirits and reduces our stress – which is particularly relevant in the lead-up to Christmas and beyond, which can be a stressful period,” she says.