Hans Christian Anderson said, “Where words fail, music speaks.” This has been seen in the lives of elderly patients as they come alive by the memories conjured by old melodies. As people age, their minds and souls continue to grow and become trapped in failing bodies.

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Music can help improve the quality of life of elderly people limited in their daily activities. Between their home health care and struggles to do daily tasks older people who are stuck in their homes have lost much of their joy to live. Music can help them regain that passion for life. Here are a few ideas for incorporating more music into your loved one’s life. You can even incorporate these ideas into a plan with top home care agency in Philadelphia.

MP3 Player

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It won’t take you long to load 100 of your loved one’s favorite songs on to an MP3 player or another music device, but it will afford them hours upon hours of enjoyment. Whether it is big band music from the early 1900s or 80’s hair bands, it shouldn’t take too long to find the music that speaks to their soul. If you have a little bit of time to devote to the project you could even make a list of their favorite songs to put on their music device.

Play an Instrument

If your loved one used to play an instrument, even if it was back in their 20’s, don’t be afraid to pull out the case, dust it off and play a few notes. It may surprise you how quickly they remember how to play. If they’re willing you could sign them up for lessons so they can continue increasing their talent.

By encouraging them to play you are helping them to have another hobby that they can invest themselves in and feel like they are progressing instead of just sitting around the house. If they are confident enough you could even do a mini-recital with them so they can show their friends and family the progress they are making.

Concert

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If you hear that a concert is coming to town that they might enjoy then get tickets and take your loved one. A sit-down concert is a great way for them to get out of the house and enjoy something they love.

Music While Exercising

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If your loved one has an exercise routine that they do each day, even if it is just walking around the house, try playing some of their favorite upbeat songs from when they were younger. The music may help them to keep better balance as they focus on something else while walking. It could also help them to remember days gone by so be prepared to listen to some riveting stories from before you were born. Some senior living community facilities implement this practice into their daily routines to help facilitate memory support.

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You will be surprised at how alive the music makes your elderly loved one feel and act. They will have stories to tell and melodies to hum along with as they enjoy a blast from their past.

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Change How You Talk About It

Make Choices for the Better

Maybe you really don’t like going to the doctor yourself. Chances are, your child can tell and they might start to be afraid of their own visits because of it. Instead of letting fear get the best of you, try out a different approach.

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When talking about a check-up, whether yours or theirs, speak clearly and calmly. You want your child to feel safe when they arrive at the office, and you can reassure them with a positive attitude. You should also talk about it more routinely in this positive way. Your child can then become more comfortable with the idea of visiting the next time it comes up.

You can also communicate clearly and accurately with the doctors and staff taking care of your child ahead of time. Make sure you know your child’s updated health history and medications so staff can treat your child accurately. If you have complaints or concerns, talk about these without your child present and in an understanding way.

See a Pediatric Professional

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There are many types of healthcare professionals to choose from, and many of them specialize in certain age groups. If your own providers don’t treat children, find a pediatric or family doctor, or a kid dentist that your child will feel comfortable around.

These practices tend to fill the office with fun toys, exciting pictures and paintings, and staff that are great with children. They might even give rewards to children for being great patients.

Make It a Learning Opportunity

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When you’re talking about any type of doctor’s visit, take the time to explain what happens when you get there (in that positive light we talked about). Encourage your child to ask questions before you go.

The physician or staff members caring for your child are also happy to talk with your child and teach them about what they do. They’ve had practice making it sound less scary, too. By the end, you may end up taking a future doctor home with you.

Use Comforts & Distractions

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If your child is especially anxious in the healthcare setting, pull together a few items that can help everyone get through the experience with the least amount of pain possible. Your child may have a favorite toy or blanket that can accompany them on the visit. Some dentist offices even offer a television at each chair to keep minds entertained during cleanings.

You can also use things like music and stories to distract your child’s mind from what might be a traumatic experience otherwise.

Offer Treats & Rewards

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Rewards can have an amazing effect on your child’s behavior while at the doctor’s office. It doesn’t have to be something extravagant, but use your best judgment when selecting a treat for your child. It could be literally that: their favorite ice cream or meal that evening, a small toy, a visit to the playground, or a movie they’ve been waiting to see.

While the promise of getting something afterward is effective, don’t use this tactic too often or you might find your child needs bigger rewards to deter their tantrums.

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