Music can enhance quality of life and well-being by creating a more dynamic, engaging and therapeutic environment. This is especially true for those living with dementia or another type of physical or cognitive loss.
Here is a list of our favorite apps that can help practitioners and caregivers support music engagement.
Vera Pro is designed specifically for older adults and those with dementia. It offers familiar music playlists that are curated to stimulate memories and emotions. The app’s intuitive interface makes it easy for caregivers to use, helping to create a soothing and familiar environment through music.
Spiritune combines music therapy principles with modern technology to create music that supports mental and emotional well-being. The app allows caregivers to select music based on the desired mood or activity, such as relaxation or stimulation, making it a versatile tool for enhancing the daily lives of older adults.
SingFit uses the power of singing to engage older adults. The app provides a variety of songs with lyrics and guided singing exercises. It is particularly beneficial for those with cognitive impairments, as singing can help improve memory, mood, and social interaction. Caregivers can easily integrate SingFit into their daily routines to promote active participation.
Magic Piano offers a fun and interactive way to play music without requiring advanced musical skills. The app guides users to play popular songs on a virtual piano, providing a sense of accomplishment and joy. This can be a great tool for engaging older adults in a new and stimulating activity.
M4D Radio offers a range of free radio stations (e.g. “born 1935-1945”) that are specially curated for people living with dementia. The stations play familiar music that can help trigger memories and provide comfort. Caregivers can use M4D Radio to create a calm and supportive environment for older adults.
Spotify offers a vast library of music from all genres and eras. It allows users to create personalized playlists, which can be tailored to the musical preferences and memories of older adults. The app’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for caregivers to find and play favorite songs, providing a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
YouTube is a valuable resource for finding a wide variety of music videos, live performances, and lyric videos. It’s particularly useful for accessing older or rare recordings that may have sentimental value. Caregivers can create playlists or use the app’s vast library for music detective sessions.
By incorporating these apps into their daily routines, practitioners and caregivers can create meaningful and enriching musical experiences for older adults, enhancing their emotional and cognitive well-being.
We hope you find these resources helpful!
