[For Seniors] Recommended Songs for Music Therapy Tailored to Physical and Mental Conditions

Blue MountainsFujiyama Ichirō

[With Large Lyrics] Blue Mountain Range [Recreation]

The celebrated song, which beautifully depicts postwar hope and the breath of a new era, was performed by Ichirō Fujiyama and Mitsue Nara as the theme for a film of the same name released in 1949.

Along with the splendor of nature, it warmly portrays young people forging a bright future, like flowers that bloom after enduring a harsh winter.

For those who lived in the years immediately following the war, it is surely a piece filled with memories.

Beloved across generations, it was chosen as No.

1 in NHK’s 1989 program “Songs of the Showa Era: 200 Unforgettable Songs.” Its beautiful melody, infused with elements of classical music, and its heartwarming lyrics are sure to evoke fond recollections of days gone by.

SubaruTanimura Shinji

Shinji Tanimura - Subaru (with lyrics)

This is a ballad that evokes the vast expanse of the cosmos, highlighted by Shinji Tanimura’s deeply resonant voice.

Its hopeful lyrics and melody strike a chord during life’s milestone moments.

Released in 1980, the piece has been featured on numerous music programs and at various events.

While rooted in folk, it also incorporates classical elements, making it a gem of a masterpiece.

Tanimura also excelled as an educator, becoming a full-time professor at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music in 2004, and he fostered deep connections with many people through music.

It’s a recommended song for music recreation with seniors as well, offering a calm listening experience at a relaxed tempo.

It would be a lovely time to hum along together while sharing fond memories.

Listening to requested songs

[Street Piano] Unending applause… so moving. Hibari Misora Special Medley [Showa-era songstress! ]

Listening to requested songs is like music therapy that lets you enjoy nostalgic tunes on the piano.

Being wrapped in the gentle tones feels heartwarming.

It may make older adults happy as they recall the past.

Since the performer responds to requests, being able to hear your favorite songs is also appealing.

It sounds fun to hum the lyrics together or clap along.

It might also be nice to listen while doing some light exercises.

Spending a leisurely time listening to the piano’s sound seems like it would be relaxing for both body and mind.

Ball juggling in time with the song

All you need is a ball! This is fun♪ Sing and pass-the-ball activity!!

“Passing the Ball to the Music” is a fun activity that’s perfect for older adults.

By passing a ball in time with the music, participants naturally develop a sense of rhythm and coordination.

Humming along while passing the ball also exercises the hands and arms, making it doubly beneficial.

Since everyone forms a circle to play, conversation arises naturally and the atmosphere becomes warm and friendly.

It’s simple yet effective, so it can help maintain both mental and physical health in older adults.

Choosing songs with a gentle tempo is recommended, as it allows everyone to relax and enjoy themselves.

Rhythmic exercises with pop songs

How about doing this exercise today? You can do it right away! Fun! Brain-training exercises ♪ #BlueMountainRange #Elderly #Seniors #DayService #BrainTraining #Exercise

“Rhythm Exercises with Kayōkyoku” is a popular activity among seniors.

Moving your body to cheerful kayōkyoku songs can energize both mind and body.

With nostalgic tunes like “Aoi Sanmyaku,” you’ll likely find yourself humming along.

It’s safe, too, since you can do it while seated.

The focus is on simple movements like clapping and stomping, so anyone can enjoy it.

Exercising while singing happily should invigorate both heart and body.

The key is to tailor it to each senior’s physical and mental condition and keep it within a comfortable range.

the first strong spring windkyandīzu

Spring Storm - Candies

With its nostalgic melody, this song that heralds the arrival of spring likely remains in the hearts of many older listeners as a signature work by Candies.

Released in March 1976, it is characterized by a fresh, bright atmosphere reminiscent of a spring breeze.

Its lively rhythm and spirited vocals convey the feeling of a new season beginning.

The song expresses the excitement of new encounters and hopes that come with spring, warmly enveloping those who listen.

It’s perfect for humming along together at a day service, too.

Enjoy a pleasant moment as you bask in the spring sunshine and reminisce about fond memories.

The railroad tracks go on forever.

Fingerplay song: The Railroad Goes On Forever

Here’s an idea for a fun hand-play song that lets you move your body to the rhythm: “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad” (Senro wa Tsuzuku yo Doko Made mo).

Face your partner, press your palms together, and alternate clapping, adding movements up, down, left, and right to keep it from becoming monotonous while building concentration and reflexes.

Changing the tempo—speeding it up or slowing it down—adds variety so it stays engaging.

Since it only uses hand and arm movements, participants can join in while seated.

Facing each other also naturally encourages smiles and conversation, making it a great activity for social interaction.

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