Reducing social isolation and improving mood amongst older adults are common goals that music therapists have always addressed in our work. The importance of these goal areas has been magnified during the pandemic. Due to safety precautions, many older adults living in senior-care facilities have had a reduction in group programming and have needed to remain in their rooms during an outbreak. At-risk older adults who live at home have also been more isolated than ever, spending reduced time with loved ones and engaging in fewer community activities. This not only results in feelings of isolation, but also effects overall mental health and well-being.
Although there are aspects of seeing our clients in-person that can't be replaced, we have found that switching to virtual visits can still very effectively make strides towards reducing social isolation and improving mood.
Therapeutic Relationship
The clients that we were visiting pre-pandemic who we cannot currently see in person have expressed gratitude for being able to connect virtually with a familiar face throughout the pandemic. The virtual platform allows them to continue to build upon the relationship they have developed with their music therapist. The consistency of being able to rely on this relationship steadily, even through a global pandemic, can reduce the clients' sense of isolation and help them feel connected to the people and things they previously enjoyed.
When it comes to building therapeutic relationships with new clients, we have found that as long as technology is on our side, we can do this effectively through an online platform. With a strong internet connection, microphones that work well and high video quality, we can build meaningful new relationships that can make a significant difference for those feeling lonely and in need of meaningful connection.
Connection to Self
Our music therapists working with those living with dementia get to know each individual through our 'Intake Form' and 'Getting to Know You' form that is filled out by a loved one or a caregiver. This initial information, as well as an assessment conducted in the first two weeks, helps the music therapist learn more about the clients' history, music preferences, and background. This helps to determine which type of music to bring into sessions to ensure that we are using music that is meaningful for the individual. Using music that is of significance to the client can help them to feel a sense of connection to themselves and can strengthen their self-identity. This, coupled with the fact that engaging in music produces chemicals and hormones that boost our mood levels, can make music therapy an uplifting experience.
Are you interested in trying our virtual music therapy services?
The very step is to either give us a call at 416-951-2788 or fill out this intake form:
We look forward to connecting with you, your care-facility, or your loved one.
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