For many senior living facility administrators, finding effective ways to manage residents’ needs can feel like solving a never-ending puzzle. When it comes to managing agitation, particularly in the evenings, you’re not alone in seeking solutions that work for residents, caregivers, and families alike.
A few years ago, an assisted living facility found itself in a situation that may sound familiar: residents were becoming visibly distressed as the day wore on. By evening, many seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia grew more agitated, walking restlessly through the halls, calling out, or even becoming physically aggressive with caregivers or fellow residents. Staff members were worn thin, trying to manage unpredictable behaviors while ensuring everyone stayed safe. Tensions rose, burnout set in, and caregivers began to leave, increasing the strain on those who remained. The administrator was at a loss—what could help restore peace to the facility?
Then, they discovered a solution they hadn’t considered before: music therapy.
My Role as a Music Therapist in Senior Care
When the administrator asked me to bring music therapy into the facility, we knew we needed a targeted approach. For individuals with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, music therapy is an evidence-based field of practice that has been shown to reduce agitation and aggression, promote relaxation, encourage social behaviors, and even ease physical discomfort. Music therapy goes beyond simple enjoyment—it is a structured, therapeutic intervention. Familiar melodies and rhythms can stimulate memories, enhance mood, and soothe anxiety. For seniors who may struggle with cognitive and emotional regulation, music therapy can offer a connection beyond words.
What I Witnessed with Music Therapy in Action
We scheduled our music therapy sessions during the evenings, a time when residents’ agitation tended to peak. Using live music tailored to each resident group’s preferences, I noticed changes almost immediately. Some residents who were usually the most agitated and withdrawn began to relax and even hum along. One of my primary goals as a music therapist was to engage each resident, especially those who struggled to connect verbally. As they grew more engaged, they became more calm and focused on the music, and the disruptive behaviors decreased noticeably. Residents were calmer, more responsive, and more connected with the environment around them.
What stood out to me was how quickly music therapy helped ease some of the toughest behaviors. Caregivers observed residents calming down and connecting, and this created a shift in the overall atmosphere. The caregivers themselves seemed more at ease as they watched the residents relax, and I could see the stress lift as they began to join in, laughing and singing along. Music therapy wasn’t just helping the residents; it was helping the whole facility find a moment of peace in what was once a very tense time.
The Benefits for Staff and Residents Alike
The benefits of implementing music therapy extended beyond reducing resident agitation. Caregivers began to feel more supported and engaged, which was essential in combating the burnout many were feeling. They saw the impact of the sessions and were able to reconnect with residents in ways that felt meaningful and energizing. When caregivers have a therapeutic tool like music therapy available, they are better equipped to handle the challenges of their daily roles, with a renewed sense of connection and purpose.
Why You Should Consider Music Therapy for Your Facility
If you’re an administrator facing challenges like evening agitation, resident aggression, or caregiver burnout, adding music therapy to your facility’s offerings could be the transformative approach you need. Here are a few practical steps to consider:
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Start Small: A weekly music therapy session may be enough to make a difference. Experiment with scheduling sessions during peak agitation times, such as the late afternoon or early evening.
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Select a Qualified Music Therapist: A certified music therapist with experience in dementia care will know how to tailor sessions to your residents’ needs and preferences.
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Observe and Adjust: Like any new intervention, music therapy may require adjustments based on resident response. Gather feedback from caregivers and families, and encourage staff to share observations.
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Communicate with Families: Families want to know their loved ones are happy and comfortable. Highlighting the success of music therapy sessions can reassure families and deepen their trust in your facility.
Music therapy has the power to bridge gaps in communication, reduce anxiety, and improve the quality of life for your residents. Just as importantly, it can reduce the stress load on your caregivers, making their daily work more sustainable and satisfying. Implementing music therapy isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
By focusing on holistic, person-centered care like music therapy, you can enhance the well-being of your residents and the resilience of your caregiving team, creating a living space where positive interactions flourish.
