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

The two are young.dikku mine

The two are young.

A duet released in August 1935 whose playful call-and-response is truly delightful.

Sung by Dick Mine and Reiko Hoshi, the song was included on the theme record for the Nikkatsu film “The Peeped-at Bride.” The music is by Masao Koga, and the lyrics were written by Hachiro Sato under the pen name Eiji Tamagawa.

Its charm lies in lyrics that evoke bright scenes like blue skies and gentle breezes, paired with an easy-to-remember melody.

With its conversational back-and-forth, singing it as a duo is sure to bring smiles.

It’s also great for recreation time—try pairing up and giving it a go.

Why not enjoy it with some handclaps to the lively rhythm? A heartwarming song that can spark fond memories and lively reminiscences.

Like the flow of a riverMisora Hibari

Like the flow of a river

Hibari Misora’s “Kawa no Nagare no Yō ni,” a song familiar to many older adults, has a gentle melody that brings peace to the heart.

The song portrays the calm flow of life and the precious bonds with loved ones, and each listen stirs many emotions.

It’s also ideal for music therapy and helps refresh both body and mind.

Because the lyrics are easy to memorize and the rhythm is gentle, it’s nice to move your body softly while singing.

Why not spend a serene moment with this song as well?

Who Would Not Think of Their HometownShimakura Chiyoko

Who Would Not Think of Their Hometown

“Dareka Furusato o Omowazaru” is a nostalgic song sung by Chiyoko Shimakura.

Its melody has the power to awaken precious memories that lie deep in the heart.

Listening to the song may bring the past to mind, and in a fleeting moment, the days of youth might come rushing back.

Such heartwarming moments can also help stimulate the brain.

Why not move your body to the rhythm as you think of the friends and family you spent time with, and enjoy a pleasant moment? It’s perfect for refreshing both mind and body as you listen to the gentle singing voice.

snow camelliaKobayashi Sachiko

Yukitsubaki Sachiko Kobayashi

Sachiko Kobayashi’s “Yukitsubaki” is a song that resonates deeply.

This piece, created with heartfelt respect for her home prefecture of Niigata, is likely familiar to many older adults.

“Yukitsubaki” is also well-suited for music therapy.

Its gentle, unhurried melody can help seniors relax while reminiscing about the past.

Many listeners may also draw courage from the lyrics’ portrayal of a woman’s strength and dignity.

Let’s offer seniors a soothing, caring moment through Kobayashi’s voice, which feels like a gentle push on the back.

Tokyo RhapsodyFujiyama Ichirō

Tokyo Rhapsody

Tokyo Rhapsody is a song with a familiar, comforting melody even for older listeners.

Its lyrics, rich with the atmosphere of the Showa era, beautifully depict scenes of Tokyo in the past.

The song has an up-tempo beat, making it perfect for exercises and other recreational activities.

You can enjoy it either standing or seated, as needed.

Move your arms and legs boldly, and enjoy a cheerful time where many people can join in with smiles.

Come on, let’s move to the music and feel energized!

I’m happy it’s spring.Sakushi: Yamazaki Iwao / Sakkyoku: Komiyaji Satoshi

♪ It’s spring, how delightful (round song)

“Spring Is Here, I’m So Happy” captures the feeling of longing for the arrival of warmer days.

The lyrics are by Iwao Yamazaki, and the music was composed by Satoshi Komiyaji, who taught at Tamagawa Academy’s elementary division for 32 years.

It features language that evokes spring’s pleasant warmth and a bright melody that naturally makes your heart dance.

Start by singing together in unison, and once you’re comfortable, split into groups and turn it into a round, chasing each other’s lines.

Its simple structure makes it easy to enjoy natural harmony while keeping to the rhythm—highly recommended.

This children’s song conjures springtime scenes of grasses, flowers, and little birds rejoicing.

In recreational gatherings for seniors, try sharing a pleasant moment as everyone’s voices blend together.

What a nice bath.Za Dorifutāzu

Nice hot bath [The Drifters]

A humorous song that portrays hot springs and the Japanese spirit, the kind everyone wants to sing along to.

Originally a local tune from Gunma Prefecture, it was reinvented by The Drifters into an arrangement that tours famous hot springs across Japan and was released as the B-side of their 1968 single “Zukkoke-chan.” Its distinctive calls and lively rhythm lift your spirits just by listening.

It became the theme song for the 1969 film “Ii Yu da na Zen’in Shugo!!” and was later beloved for many years as the ending theme of “Hachiji da yo! Zen’in Shugo” and “Dorifu Daibakushō.” It’s perfect for a cold winter’s day, adding playful interjections while picturing scenes of a hot spring.