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

Apple Song Exercise

Seated rhythmic exercises for seniors: Do exercises while singing “Apple Song”

While singing “The Apple Song” (Ringo no Uta), which is remembered as the first hit song after the war, this activity involves moving the body slowly.

The song has a uniquely calm atmosphere, so it gives the impression that you can move at an unhurried pace.

The movements mainly focus on the upper body, but by adding steps and singing, you can also stimulate brain activity.

Even if you’ve heard the song before, you might not remember the lyrics perfectly, so in that case, following along with the lyrics also adds a focus and concentration element.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

kappamaki

Report a problem

Spring somewhereSakushi: Momota Soji / Sakkyoku: Kusagawa Shin

Somewhere, spring is | with lyrics | One Hundred Japanese Songs | Somewhere, spring is being born

A beloved song that gently portrays the arrival of spring was born in March 1923.

Created by Soji Momota and Shin Kusakawa, the piece delicately captures subtle changes in nature—like the sound of water beginning to flow, birdsong, and the breath of budding plants.

Its calm, warm melody is filled with the joy and hope of spring, and it has often been featured on NHK’s educational programs.

It is recommended for music recreation sessions that spark nostalgic conversations about the past or allow people to share the feeling of spring’s arrival together.

Like a pleasant spring breeze, it will help you spend a gentle, peaceful moment.

Ladybug Sambacherisshu

Ladybug Samba Cherish 1973

Let me introduce a lovely song that captures the arrival of spring.

Its bright, buoyant rhythm and lyrics depicting tiny creatures celebrating a wedding are especially memorable.

Released in July 1973, it was a major hit, reaching No.

5 on the Oricon weekly chart.

It has long been cherished as a classic wedding song.

For many older listeners, it may also bring back fond memories.

It’s perfect when you want to savor the cheerful atmosphere of spring or lift your spirits.

If everyone sings and dances together, it’s sure to become a wonderful time filled with smiles.

era; age; time; periodNakajima Miyuki

Era - Live 2010–11 (from Tokyo International Forum Hall A)

March brings the feeling that spring has arrived.

Among Miyuki Nakajima’s songs, there is one that fits this season perfectly.

This piece sings of life’s joys and sorrows, of meetings and partings.

Released in 1975, it won the Grand Prix at the Popular Song Contest.

Its gentle melody and profound lyrics speak to the listener’s heart.

It has been featured at graduation ceremonies and in music textbooks, and is loved across generations.

It is also a familiar song for older adults.

Why not hum it together with your family and friends, along with nostalgic memories? It will surely warm your heart.

Album of MemoriesSakushi: Masuko Toshi / Sakkyoku: Honda Tetsuma

Memory Album / Opening lyrics: ♪ Before we knew it / With easy-to-read lyrics / [Children’s Song]

Evoking a hint of spring, this song gently recounts memories from kindergarten.

It paints scenes from the changing seasons, bringing a sense of nostalgia and warmth to listeners.

Since its release in 1961, it has continued to be loved by many.

It has been featured on TV Asahi’s children’s program “Tobidase! Panpororin” and NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” making it familiar across generations.

It’s also lovely for seniors to hum along with their grandchildren.

A wonderful piece that can be enjoyed across generations while reminiscing about the past.

On the Day of DepartureSakushi: Kojima Noboru / Sakkyoku: Sakamoto Hiromi

[Chorus Song] On the Day of Departure / With Lyrics / Singing Practice / Graduation Song #chorus #classchorus #graduationsong #choruscontest

There is a song that many older adults love, often associated with the arrival of spring and graduation season.

Originally created at a junior high school in Saitama Prefecture as a gift to graduating students, it has since become a standard performed at schools across Japan.

With hopeful lyrics and a bright melody, it conveys courage and determination for a new beginning.

It also gained attention when it was used in a commercial featuring SMAP.

It’s a wonderful song that lets you look back on nostalgic memories while feeling hopeful about the future.

Why not listen to it together with older adults as an opportunity to reflect on life’s milestones?

cherry blossomMoriyama Naotaro

Naotaro Moriyama – Sakura (Solo)

Speaking of cherry blossoms, they are beautiful flowers that herald the arrival of spring.

This song is a masterpiece that overlays the fleeting nature of sakura with the transience of life.

Naotaro Moriyama’s gentle voice vividly depicts a farewell beneath rows of cherry trees.

Released in March 2003, it became a massive hit, selling over one million copies.

Many may know it as the ending theme for the MBS/TBS program “Sekai Ururun Taizaiki.” It’s a song that resonates at life’s milestones and moments of parting.

How about listening to it with older adults and basking in nostalgic memories? Wrapped in the warmth of spring, you can spend a heartwarming moment together.