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

Waltz of StarlightSen Masao

Waltz of Starlight - Masao Sen

Released in 1966 (Showa 41).

Two years later, it gradually caught fire on wired broadcasts across Japan and went on to sell a total of 2.5 million copies.

Known as Masao Sen’s biggest hit, “Hoshikage no Waltz” (“Waltz of Starlight”) expresses, from a male perspective, the poignant feeling of having to part with a loved one—knowing it’s not what the heart truly wants, yet having no choice.

Its relaxed three-beat waltz rhythm makes it easy to sing, and combined with its popularity, it’s a song that many people can enjoy when doing karaoke in senior care facilities.

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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.

March of 365 StepsSuizenji Kiyoko

Kiyoko Suizenji - “365-Step March” (Official Audio)

This song has long been loved as an anthem of encouragement in life, carrying the message that taking one step at a time is important.

Since its release in November 1968, it has continued to resonate with many people.

Born during Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, the song is characterized by its cheerful melody and positive lyrics.

It has been used in films, TV commercials, anime, and many other contexts, and has been cherished by people of all ages.

How about humming along with older adults while being enveloped by Ms.

Suizenji’s warm singing voice? It will surely bring back fond memories and give you a boost of energy.

Hanjirō of the Hakone Eight RiHikawa Kiyoshi

Kiyoshi Hikawa / Hanzirō of Hakone Hachiri [Official]

With its signature catchphrase, Kiyoshi Hikawa’s debut single “Hakonê Hachiri no Hanjirō” quickly became widely known.

Beyond his powerful vocals, his handsome looks won broad acceptance among younger women who had previously been less interested in enka, propelling him to instant nationwide stardom.

The song’s phrases function as a call-and-response with fans, reportedly creating an electrifying atmosphere at concerts.

Thanks to this, the song is widely recognized and enjoys great popularity at karaoke.

It’s also sure to liven up recreational activities at senior care facilities.

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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.

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.