Episode 1 - The Impact of Music Therapy on Social Isolation
Updated: Mar 29, 2022
How does social isolation and loneliness impact the long-term care population? Read below to find out!
Pictures Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/23/well/family/coronavirus-loneliness-isolation-social-distancing-elderly.html
Impact of Music Therapy on Social Isolation and Loneliness
Social isolation is the physical separation of oneself from others either intentionally or unintentionally. Loneliness is the feeling of being alone, regardless of the amount of social contact.
Music Share’s mission is to provide music therapy to prevent the symptoms of
social isolation (Music Share, 2022). By interacting with residents one-on-one, Music
Share establishes meaningful relationships that fosters the well-being of residents.
Studies have shown that forming social bonds with residents reduces the risk of heart
disease and stroke by about 30% and improves overall mental well-being (National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2020). In addition, residents who
experience loneliness and heart disease concurrently were likely to increase risk of
hospitalization by 68% and are 4 times more likely to experience death (National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2020). Tailoring music playlists
induces a positive experience as it empowers the individual through mutual
engagement in a social activity. Among the population of older individuals, it is crucial
that we do not neglect their physical and mental well-being. Music therapy can mitigate
this issue by reducing the complications of social isolation and loneliness (National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2020).
By: Realiza Becaro & Francis Galase
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, April 29). Loneliness and Social Isolation
Linked to Serious Health Conditions. Retrieved from
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html
Music Share. (2022.). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.wearemusicshare.com
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2020. Social Isolation and
Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities for the Health Care System. Washington, DC:
The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/25663external icon
