Exercise is essential for all populations but may be most imperative for older adults. The World Health Organization [WHO] recommends that adults aged 65 and older should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week (World Health Organization [WHO], para. 1). However, a 2014 study by the CDC reported that 26.9% of adults aged 65-74 and 35.3% of adults >75 had no physical activity outside of work or daily living in the previous month (Watson et. al.,, 2014, 954). The benefits of physical activity are practically endless, reducing the risk for cardiovascular complications, recurrent falls, ADL limitations and cognitive decline, dementia, and depression. Overall, an increased quality life and improved cognitive functioning are the greatest outcomes (Cunningham, 2020, para. 1).
In a 2001 music therapy case study, results indicated that there was a significant difference in the adherence to six of 14 various exercises presented with and without music during a physical therapy rehabilitation session for older adults (Johnson et. al, 91). The researchers credit the presence of music and the element of rhythm for increased fluidity and increased range of motion. Without music, the researchers noted that some patients had an increased number of repetitions per movement but some exercises required slower movements to gain maximum benefits (Johnson et. al, 2001, 92). Overall, unsolicited comments recorded during the session by the patients indicated a preference for music in the sessions (Johnson et. al, 2001, 82).
Neurologic Music Therapy pioneer Dr. Michael Thaut gives further insight as to how rhythm aids in motor processes: “Rhythm provides temporal structure through metrical organization, predictability, and patterning….Rhythmic entrainment provides immediate time regulation but can be accessed to enhance long-term training effects” (Thaut, 2005, pg. 83). The temporal lobes are located on either side of the brain located near the ears. While their most prominent function is auditory processing and encoding memory, the right temporal lobe is involved in learning and remembering non-verbal information. This aids in visuo-spatial material as well as processing the structures of music (Queensland Government, 2017, para. 2). The rhythm of music allows auditory processing and the motor system to work in tandem through rhythmic entrainment, priming of the auditory-motor pathway, and cuing of the movement period (Thaut, 2005, 141). While the rhythmic structure of music can help individuals in real-time–in terms of the 2001 case study, while the individuals were exercising– rhythm can also be used to cue long-term memory recall, aiding in movement.
While research is limited on examining individual’s music preference and effect on movement, a 2016 study revealed that key features of music preferred by older adults included “duple meter, consistent rhythm, major key, rounded melodic shape, legato articulation, predictable harmonies, variable volume, and episodes of tension with delayed resolution” (Clark, 2016, 364). An outline of songs from the 2001 Johnson et. al study that fit these characteristics and their respective implementation can be found below:
Overall, fitness and movement is essential for all populations but can greatly increase the quality of life of older adults. Having input from a board-certified music to pair appropriate music selections with fitness routines can help maximize the intended effects of the exercises.
-Sarah Deal, Music Therapy Intern
References:
Clark, I.N., Baker, F.A., & Taylor, N.F. (2016). Older Adults’ Music Listening Preferences to Support Physical Activity Following Cardiac Rehabilitation. Journal of Music Therapy, 53(4), 364-397.
Cunningham, C., O’Sullivan, R., Caserotti, P., & Tully, M.A. (2020). Consequences of physical inactivity in older adults: A systematic review of reviews and meta‐analyses. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, 30(5), 816-827.
Johnson, G., Otto, D., & Clair, A.A. (2001). The Effect of Instrumental and Vocal Music on Adherence to a Physical Rehabilitation Exercise Program with Persons who are Elderly. Journal of Music Therapy, 38(2), 82-96.
Thaut, M.H. (2005). Rhythm, Music, and the Brain. Routledge.
Watson, K.B., Carlson, S.A., Gunn, J.P., Galuska, D.A., O’Connor, A., Greenlund, K.J., & Fulton, J.E. (2014). Physical Inactivity Among Adults Aged 50 Years and Older. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 65(36), 954-958.
Queensland Government (2017). Brain Map: Temporal Lobes. Retrieved April 25, 2020 from https://www.health.qld.gov.au/abios/asp/btemporal_lobes
World Health Organization [WHO] (n.d). Physical Activity and Older Adults. Retrieved April 25, 2020 from https://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/factsheet_olderadults/en/