Aging Well: Music is Everywhere
Cathy Graham • July 27, 2021
Music is everywhere.
All of us can engage in listening to music almost anywhere at any time. Fundamentally, music is a combination of sounds, and sound is vibration. Music is made of vibrations of different frequencies as heard in the sounds of the ocean waves careening to shore and birds chirping. Even the rain hitting the roof top can be thought of a gentle melody that helps one relax and fall to sleep.
Music is rhythmic not only to our ears but to our hearts and souls.
Hearing a song from 40 or 50 years ago can bring an instant emotional response of nostalgia, catapulting past experiences into the present.
Music is powerful.
It can make us want to move and sing in a way we would not in its absence. Moving and being creative can help people to extend themselves. It helps us to be spontaneous, more conversational and jovial.
Music is also healing.
In times of loss and great sadness we often turn to songs and sounds that mirror our feelings, and we listen to them repeatedly until the bleeding has stopped. Music is medicine. It helps patients recover after surgery and can underscore a positive attitude during treatments and therapies. Music is successfully used to reduce certain symptoms of depression.
Music covers our lifespan and journals our years better than anything else.
It is a constant companion even when we are isolated. It is confetti, a strong hug and a deep cry. It is what we are when we need it most.
Cathy Graham is the director of Graceful Aging Wellness Center, part of Bethlen Communities in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, and a District 3000–HRFA member. cgraham@bethlen.com
GBU has designated four Community Pillars - Wellness, Education, Charitable Giving and Hometown Hero Support - which are a concentrated list of causes that resonate with our values.
Looking for new spots to explore this winter? Check out these three must-visit places for your next adventure.
Details and deadlines surrounding the GBU Foundation scholarship and grants for 2025.
Looking to try some new recipes this winter?
We've found some tips to keep up your sleeve this winter.
The Defined Benefit Annuity from GBU Life can help you to create a plan for a guaranteed income in retirement by making regular contributions based on your retirement income targets.
Graduating from college is an exciting milestone, but it’s also the perfect time to focus on your financial future. Building on the foundation you’ve already laid the groundwork for with smart money choices will set you up for long-term success. Here are a few key financial products to consider as you take the next step.
Kick-start your child’s journey to financial success with a whole life policy from GBU Life.
How well do you know the characters from the hit TV series The Office? Watch your reruns and get ready to test your skills in our winter trivia contest!
Did you know you can use your RMD to purchase financial products that can help to secure the future for you, your loved ones or a charitable organization that you care about?