Music Therapy for Home Health Patients

Music therapy is a clinical form of care in which board-certified music therapists will assess a patient’s emotional well-being, physical health, social functioning, communication abilities and cognitive skills and develop a plan-of-care based on their needs. This is used in conjunction with other home health care services. Music therapy can help a wide range of individuals including those with:

  • Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or other related diagnosis
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • COPD or respiratory distress
  • Persons who may be isolated due to physical limitations
elderly man clapping while man plays guitar
a typical session

What to expect during a music therapy session

Depending on the needs and goals of the patient, music therapy sessions may consist of breathing technique, movement to music, playing instruments, assisted songwriting, singing exercises or passive music listening for comfort. Family members also have the opportunity to listen or participate in their loved one’s sessions. 

Benefits of Music Therapy

You do not need to have any formal training to benefit from music therapy. Some of the physical and emotional benefits music therapy patients experience include: 

  • Alleviated pain and discomfort
  • Expression of feelings
  • Elevated mood
  • Enhanced memory
  • Improved communication
  • Increased movement and exercise
  • Increased socialization
 
nurse and patient playing percussion instrument