Music and Movement for the Geriatric Resident

Abstract

Music and movement have been closely linked together throughout recorded history. Rarely do we listen to music without feeling the urge to tap our feet, snap our fingers, clap our hands, or to get up and dance. This instinctive urge paves the way for the natural pairing of music and exercise, and is the basis for incorporating movement and exercise. Whether the exercise is the formal structure of "one-two," or the improvisational form of free dance, music enhances the movement. As music therapists, we use music to set the tone and mood for our exercise and dance groups, as well as using such specific music-movement techniques as Rhythm Instruments, Orff, and Eurhythmics. This chapter will present suggestions for adding music to an already existing exercise group, how to set up a music exercise group, how to get geriatric residents dancing; and a brief discussion of each of the above listed music and movement methods.