Christmas is a wonderful time of year when we all enjoy hearing the old familiar carols. But research shows that music does much more than just warm our hearts. Music gives moments of connection, happiness, and memory to those who suffer from pain, memory loss, and loneliness. It also has measureable effects on the body, such as lowering blood pressure and heart rate, and some have even seen relief from chronic pain and depression. Seniors, especially, can experience many benefits from music therapy such as:
Better awareness and concentration
Increased social interaction
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The Golden Gems Choir is one of two singing clubs at the Tanglewood Group. Along with the Ring For Joy Chimes, the choir provides a creative outlet for the seniors at Tanglewood.
Submitted photo
Improved memory and recall
Happier outlook on life and higher self-esteem
Music has been found to restore one's creative spirit, help achieve a more positive outlook, and maintain one's self-esteem and attentiveness.
The Tanglewood Group recognizes the benefits music can have on our lives, and provides many outlets for their residents to enjoy it. Multiple musical activities are enjoyed every week as part of the scheduled activities at Tanglewood Manor, Memory Garden, and Comfort Today, which include playing chimes and drums, sing-alongs, concerts, and even music trivia. Back in 2004, eight male residents expressed a desire to sing, and from that small group, a mixed choir has evolved. So, for those with a desire to perform, two groups have been organized that practice regularly and perform. These are the Golden Gems Choir and Ring for Joy Chimes from Tanglewood, under the direction of Mary Schmidt.
So, next time you feel yourself tapping your toe to the melody, humming along or even singing a tune, it may be ''just what the doctor ordered.''