For residents at Cottage Homes, music is at the heart of living well, and a way to keep spirits high and memories alive.
Music is one of the most enduring threads running through our lives. It drifts through our homes, fills our celebrations, accompanies moments of reflection, and quietly forms the soundtrack to our memories. For many older people, music carries deep personal meaning, and as research continues to show, it can also play an important role in supporting wellbeing as we age.
We recently spoke with registered Music Therapist Bec Davies, who specialises in working with older people and those living with neurological or degenerative conditions, believes that everyone can experience the benefits of music, regardless of whether they consider themselves “musical.”
“We are all musical,” she says. “Music is all around us — in the car, on the radio, in shopping centres. Music therapy recognises that impact and uses music purposefully to support people’s health and wellbeing.”
Why Music Matters as We Age
Music activates every area of the brain — physical, cognitive, emotional, social and even spiritual. According to Bec, this makes it a powerful tool for supporting older people in a wide range of ways:
- Emotional wellbeing: Music can improve mood, lift spirits, reduce stress and calm anxiety.
- Memory support: Familiar songs help revisit treasured memories and spark conversations. “Hearing music from their younger years, like The Beatles or Neil Diamond, can prompt reflections on times in their lives,” says Bec.
- Physical benefits: Our bodies naturally synchronise to rhythm. Upbeat music can encourage movement, walking or exercise, while slow, gentle music supports relaxation and sleep.
- Social connection: Music is inherently social, whether singing, playing, listening together or reminiscing.
For Bec, the goal is always meaningful engagement. “Music creates opportunities for connection. It brings people together.”
Music Through Life’s Changes
For many older people, life transitions, such as downsizing or moving house, can mean leaving behind record collections, instruments or players that no longer work with modern technology. Music therapy helps bridge these gaps.
“Technology has changed how we access music, but the memories and feelings it evokes remain,” Bec says. Support workers and family members can help older adults reconnect with favourite artists through digital platforms, often unlocking stories long untold.
A Community Brought Together Through Music
Across Cottage Homes sites, music continues to show up in daily life. Some residents play instruments, some sing, some dance, and many simply enjoy listening.
Regardless of how it is experienced, music remains a source of comfort, identity, creativity and togetherness.
Even those who no longer play instruments can find joy in listening. Residents often gather to enjoy light music together, whether it’s the hum of a radio over breakfast or the gentle melodies shared during social activities. Listening is, in itself, a powerful form of connection.
At Toorak Gardens, a group of residents gathers each Sunday morning to share news, chat over a cuppa, and enjoy a backdrop of tunes provided by resident Allan Woodman. The music sets the tone for friendship and connection.
As Bec beautifully puts it: “Music is part of who we are. It helps us connect with our past, engage with others, and stay present in the moment.”
At Cottage Homes, we proudly embrace the role music plays in enriching the lives of older South Australians, today, tomorrow, and for years to come.
Pictured above: Allan, Lorraine, Anne, Rob and Fiona enjoy morning tea and music together at Cottage Homes Toorak Gardens.