Intersection of Music and Mental Health: Older Adults
M + H Freestyle: Roundtable discussions provide an opportunity for participants to reflect on presentations, exchange ideas, and explore key issues, trends, and practices related to music experiences that meet the needs of different life stages.
Colgan Johnson
The mental health needs of older adults are unique. As we age, we are more likely to be impacted by the loss of family or friends, living alone, and chronic illness affecting our social circles while simultaneously increasing feelings of loneliness. Research suggests that one in four older adults experiences issues with their mental health that put their overall health at risk. Music-based experiences are engaging, motivating, and affirmative processes that improve mental health outcomes and experiences.
From personal enjoyment to structured therapeutic programs, music experiences can:
- evoke positive memories and meaningful associations,
- create a sense of community,
- increase self-expression,
- increase physical activity,
- boost mood by providing a sense of purpose,
- maintain or improve cognitive functioning, and
- enhance overall quality of life.
Join leading experts to explore and put forth agendas of action for research and programming focused on the arts as a viable tool for improving the mental health and wellbeing of older adults.
Presenters include:
- Christopher Bailey, arts and health lead, World Health Organization
- Ipsit Vahia, MD, associate chief, Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, McLean Hospital
- Melita Belgrave, PhD, MT-BC, associate professor, Arizona State University
- Robin Rio, MA, MT-BC, adjunct professor, Virginia Commonwealth University
- Trish Winter, PhD, MT-BC, human subjects research and education manager, Carilion Clinic
- Joanna Culligan, MA, MT-BC, Virginia Tech Adult Day Services
- Renate Rohlfing, MA, MT-BC, associate professor, Berklee College of Music
- Golden Tones Chorus
About the series:
- convene leaders, professionals, practitioners, visionaries, and key stakeholders;
- foster the exchange of ideas;
- amplify and elevate innovative voices, best practices, and trends; and
- move the dial to raise awareness of the many intersections of music and health.