The Power of Song in Memory and Wellness

The Power of Song
in Memory and Wellness

Music has a way of staying with us—long after the moment has passed. For older adults, singing isn’t just a joyful pastime. It’s a powerful, research-backed tool for enhancing memory, reducing stress, and supporting overall wellness. Here’s how singing can play a meaningful role in healthy aging:

Singing and Memory:
A Musical Bridge to the Past

Singing engages multiple areas of the brain, including those tied to memory and language.
Melodies and lyrics act as memory cues, helping older adults recall words, stories, and emotions.
Even those with memory challenges, like dementia, often light up when hearing familiar songs.
Group singing supports cognitive functions like attention, sequencing, and word retrieval.

Singing and Wellness: Tune Up Your Health

Singing promotes deep breathing and good posture, both beneficial to physical health.

It encourages gentle movement, especially when combined with clapping, swaying, or dancing.

Learning new songs or performing builds confidence and mental sharpness.

The joy of music creates a positive mindset, which supports overall wellness and longevity.

Singing for Stress Relief: Music That Heals

Singing boosts the release of feel-good hormones like endorphins and oxytocin.

It helps lower cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, promoting a sense of calm.

Music offers an outlet for emotional expression, helping ease anxiety and depression.

Participating in music with others fosters connection and belonging, which are vital to emotional health.

Make Singing Part of Everyday Life

You don’t need to be a trained singer to benefit—every voice matters!

Start small: sing in the car, hum while gardening, or listen to your favorite tunes daily.

Join a community choir, sing-along group, or virtual music session.

Share music with grandchildren and loved ones—it’s a powerful way to connect across generations.

Final Thoughts

Music is more than just entertainment—it’s a lifeline to memories, wellness, and joy. Whether it’s a cherished childhood lullaby or a favorite song from the radio, singing brings light and energy into everyday life.

So turn up the music, sing loud, and sing often—your mind, heart, and spirit will thank you.

The Asheville Senior Chorus is an active Special Interest Group that meets every week as part of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNC-Asheville. Led by Chuck Taft, they produce harmonious tunes while also building strong bonds and valuing shared moments. Their concerts feature a diverse range of musical styles and periods.