[For Seniors] Recommended Songs for Care Activities and Events! Crowd-Pleasers That Bring Joy
Many nursing homes and day service centers incorporate music appreciation, don’t they?
Listening to music is a form of entertainment anyone can enjoy.
Older adults likely have songs that have stayed with them throughout their lives.
So this time, we’ll introduce songs that seniors will love.
We’ve gathered many songs that can make seniors feel nostalgic or uplifted.
They’re perfect for playing at recreational activities and events, too.
Even seniors who find it difficult to go out may feel refreshed by listening to seasonal songs.
Nostalgic tunes can also stimulate the brain by prompting the recall of memories.
We hope you’ll make the most of this article.
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[For Seniors] Recommended Songs for Care Activities and Events! Crowd-Pleasing, Uplifting Tunes (71–80)
Swim, Taiyaki-kunShimon Masato
Though it’s a children’s song, Shimon Masato’s “Swim! Taiyaki-kun” remains etched in the memories of people across generations.
The unique story of a taiyaki that had only ever been grilled on a hotplate suddenly dashing out of the shop one day and setting off to swim across the open sea is unforgettable! The distinctively quirky vocals perfectly match the taiyaki-kun’s characterful lyrics.
With its relaxed melody, it’s an easy song to sing—even for older adults who aren’t confident at karaoke.
The tune naturally sinks into your ears and body, so sway along and clap your hands as you enjoy it!
teacherMori Masako
Masako Mori captivates with her pure, gentle singing voice.
Her debut song, which also became one of her signature hits, is “Sensei.” Pay attention to the beautiful Japanese lyrics that depict a faint, adoring crush on a teacher.
The melody doesn’t have extreme highs and lows and has a light tempo, making it easy for older adults to sing as well.
If you incorporate it into day service activities, try adding handclaps to liven things up and inserting call-and-response during the chorus to make it even more fun!
365 Steps MarchSuizenji Kiyoko
It is one of Kiyoko Suizenji’s signature songs.
It also drew attention as a case where Kiyoko Suizenji, known for her work as an enka singer, performed a kayōkyoku-style song.
As the title suggests, the piece evokes a march, conveying a positive feeling of moving forward.
It depicts steadily advancing toward the future, and simply listening to it brings a sense of joy.
The lively rhythm of the march is a major highlight, likely creating a fun, immersive atmosphere that draws in everyone present.
Crossing Amagi PassIshikawa Sayuri
Along with “Tsugaru Strait Winter Scenery,” Sayuri Ishikawa’s “Amagi-goe” can be considered one of her signature songs.
It’s been performed many times on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and is especially familiar to older listeners.
It’s also a popular karaoke number across generations, so give it a try! The key to this song is, above all, its punchy lyrics and sultry vocal style.
It may be on the difficult side with elements like falsetto and kobushi (ornamental vocal turns), but thanks to enka’s characteristically relaxed melody, it might be easier to boldly take on than you think.
Chanchiki OdesaMinami Haruo
“Chanchiki Okesa” is known as one of Haruo Minami’s signature songs and is still loved by many seniors today.
Its nostalgic melody and poignant lyrics about longing for one’s hometown are memorable.
You can almost picture men at street stalls sipping sake while reminiscing about where they came from.
Released as his debut single in 1957, it became a massive hit, selling 2.2 million copies.
It was performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen and even inspired a film of the same name.
It’s nice to hum along together while sharing fond memories.
With its soothing music, it promises a pleasant, enjoyable time.
Sorry, please forgive me.Kasuga Hachirō
Hachiro Kasuga’s “Gomen yo Kanben na” is a moving classic released in 1957.
Filled with apology and affection for a loved one, this song is sure to touch many hearts.
The lyric “I never let you say you loved me” conveys the feelings of someone who couldn’t be honest.
For seniors, it may be a song that brings back memories of their youth.
How about listening to this song and reflecting on memories with someone special? It’s likely to give you a gentle, heartwarming moment.
Second-son crowShirane Kazuo
Kazuo Shirane’s “Jinanbō Karasu” (The Second Son Crow) is a smash hit released in 1955.
It’s also known as the theme song for the film “Jinanbō Karasu,” starring Raizō Ichikawa.
Many older listeners likely find it nostalgic.
The lyrics portray the wistful feelings of a second son who has fallen in love.
The opening line, “Where will you fly, second son crow?” leaves a strong impression.
It may remind seniors of romances from their youth.
With its relaxed tempo, it’s very easy to sing.
Try singing it together while reminiscing about the old days—it’s sure to warm the heart.