Recommended Songs for Nursing Home Recreation [Fun Exercise, Soothing Songs]
This article introduces recommended songs for recreation in nursing homes.
Music can have positive effects on the mind and body, and it’s also great for accompanying exercise and relieving stress.
Because this selection is intended for recreation, we’ve chosen videos that make it easy for older adults to imagine using the songs for movement and that staff can use as helpful references.
Nostalgic songs and tunes that feel familiar to older adults are likely to be especially well received.
Every song has a lovely atmosphere and can lift the mood or be soothing.
Please make good use of them in your recreational activities.
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- [For Seniors] Spring Songs You'll Want to Hum: Feel the Season with Nostalgic Classics
- [For Seniors] Recommended Songs for Care Activities and Events! Crowd-Pleasers That Bring Joy
- [For Seniors] Hand and finger play roundup: Finger exercises that lead to brain training
- [Sing for your health!] Popular songs among seniors. Also recommended for recreational activities.
- For Seniors: Fun and Lively Exercise Recreation
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- Also great for dementia care! Recommended dance songs for people in their 70s: Let’s dance to those classic hits
- Energetic and Lively! Sing-and-Exercise Program for Seniors
- Ranking of popular songs for senior citizens
- [Grandpa & Grandma] Timeless Songs to Gift to Seniors
- [For Seniors] A heartwarming round song. Let’s layer our voices with this nostalgic classic.
Recommended Songs for Nursing Home Recreation [Fun Exercise, Healing Songs] (31–40)
Festival MamboMisora Hibari

Mambo—a genre that many Japanese first became aware of thanks to Hibari Misora’s “Omatsuri Mambo.” You can probably picture the jokesters who shout “Uu—Mambo!” when they’re in high spirits.
It’s said that mambo emerged in the 1900s from a fusion of rumba and jazz.
Hearing “the 1900s,” it still feels like a relatively new musical genre, doesn’t it? Just the famous intro of “Omatsuri Mambo”—that tsuttaka-tsuttakattakata rhythm—will get your body moving.
It’s a fun, highly recommended song: you can learn some simple mambo steps, or just imitate Hibari Misora’s moves.
UFOpinku redii

We’re introducing the classic hit “UFO,” known for Pink Lady’s harmonies and unique choreography.
Pink Lady is the idol duo that gained popularity with their bold costumes and humorous dance moves.
When it comes to their signature songs, many may come to mind, but this time let’s relieve stress by dancing along to “UFO.” In the video, the choreography has been simplified, so be sure to give it a try!
I just can’t stopYamamoto Rinda

Let me introduce “Dounimo Tomaranai,” a famous song by Linda Yamamoto, a Japanese singer who also shines as a TV personality.
Linda Yamamoto is known for her hit songs paired with sexy, dynamic dance moves.
She has performed many classic numbers, but this time, let’s get our bodies moving to “Dounimo Tomaranai.” The key is to dance as if you’re fluttering like a butterfly or blooming like a flower! It’s a full-body workout that not only moves your body but also stimulates your brain, leaving you feeling refreshed.
The Bride SambaGō Hiromi

Let’s dance to some nostalgic tunes and relive those days! Today’s pick is “Oyome Samba.” Many of you probably feel your spirits lift when you hear Hiromi Go’s sweet, unmistakable voice.
This time, let’s shake it out to “Oyome Samba” and blow off some steam.
Moving your body boosts blood flow to the brain and releases neurotransmitters, which can help relieve stress.
It’ll lift your mood and leave you feeling refreshed! Give it a try and work it into your routine.
Grandfather’s Clock

A classic song that weaves a moving story, it tenderly captures the deep bond between a grandfather and his old clock.
Inspired by a pendulum clock Henry Clay Work encountered at a hotel in England, it was created in 1876.
Its gentle melody and heartwarming lyrics make it irresistibly singable for everyone.
Upon release, the sheet music became a smash hit in the United States, selling one million copies, and after being featured on NHK’s “Minna no Uta,” it gained further attention through a cover by Ken Hirai.
It was adapted into a film in December 2022, drawing renewed interest.
It’s a perfect song for joyful gatherings, evoking warmth and nostalgia through the feelings for a clock that has marked time together.
Swim, Taiyaki-kunShimon Masato

With lively, uplifting lyrics and melody, Masato Shimon’s bright singing voice leaves a strong impression.
Its humorous world—where fish-shaped sweets set off swimming in the sea—makes for a heartwarming piece that brings a smile to anyone’s face.
Released in December 1975, the song spent 11 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the Oricon chart.
It aired on Fuji TV’s program “Hirake! Ponkikki,” generating a huge response.
The playful lyrics and light, brisk rhythm are delightful, and its catchy familiarity makes it easy for anyone to hum along.
It’s a perfect choice for cheerful recreational settings or group singing.
Add some handclaps and enjoy a warm, pleasant time together.
Recommended Songs for Nursing Home Recreation [Fun Exercise, Healing Songs] (41–50)
tea pickingMonbushō shōka

This is a celebrated song from the Ministry of Education’s school song repertoire, passed down since the Meiji era, beautifully portraying the changing seasons.
It vividly depicts the refreshing early-summer scenery and the peaceful scene of people picking tea.
With images of fresh greenery around the Eighty-Eighth Night, tea-pickers’ work garments, and rural landscapes, it conveys traditional Japanese life along with a gentle melody.
Since its inclusion in 1912 in “Elementary School Songs for the Third Grade (Jinjō Shōgaku Shōka),” it has been widely loved through school education.
This piece is a song everyone can enjoy singing together, often tied to fond memories.
Its charm also lies in incorporating simple hand motions while singing, allowing for a heartwarming time.


