Citation

Rosling LK, Kitchen J. Activ. Adapt. Aging 1993; 17(2): 27-38.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1993, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J016v17n02_03

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article describes a fourteen week music therapy program with twelve residents of a long term care facility using relaxation, a variety of recorded music selections, art materials, writing and discussion to facilitate the exploration of feelings and memories. The focus is particularly the depth of emotional engagement offered by this method and its usefulness in working with depressed elderly persons. "Our personal development is based on what happens to us in the two worlds in which we live. One is the external world of things and events; the other is the inner world of senses, feelings and meanings. Art activities are important because they form a bridge of communication and interaction between these worlds." "Music is a resource pool. It contains many things-images, patterns, mood suggestions, textures, feelings, processes. If selected, created and used with respect and wisdom, the clients will hear what they need to hear in the music, and use the ritual as a supportive context."