Listening to music can help older persons sleep better, according to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Researchers from Taiwan's National Cheng Kung University Hospital pooled the findings of previous studies to better understand the impact of music on sleep quality in older persons. Their findings show that:
- Listening to music for 30 minutes to an hour before night helps older persons (ages 60 and higher) sleep better at home.
- Calm music enhances sleep quality in older persons more than rhythmic music.
- To get the most benefit from music, older individuals should listen to it for at least four weeks.
Why Do Older Adults Have Trouble Sleeping?
Our sleep patterns vary as we get older, making getting a decent night's sleep more difficult. What exactly does a good night's sleep entail? You probably slept well the night before if you wake up relaxed and eager to tackle the day. However, if you're weary during the day, require coffee to stay awake, or wake up numerous times during the night, you might not be receiving enough deep sleep. The National Institute on Aging recommends that older persons get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
However, studies reveal that 40 to 70 percent of older persons experience sleep issues, with over 40 percent having insomnia, which means they wake up frequently throughout the night or too early in the morning. Sleep issues can make you irritated and unhappy, create memory problems, and even cause you to fall or have an accident.
How the Researchers Investigated the Impact of Music on Sleep Quality in Seniors
The researchers looked for previous studies that looked at the effect of listening to music on older persons who live alone and have sleep problems. They looked at 5 research with a total of 288 people. Half of the participants listened to music while the other half received standard or no treatment for their sleep issues. People who were given music therapy listened to either tranquil or rhythmic music for 30 minutes to an hour over a two- to three-month period. (Calming music has a slower speed and a soothing melody, whereas rhythmic music is faster and louder.) All participants responded to the questions.
The researchers looked at the average score differences for:
- People who listened to music against those who did not;
- People who listened to calm music versus those who listened to rhythmic music; and
- People who listened to music for less than four weeks versus those who listened to music for more than four weeks
What the Scientists Discovered
Listening to relaxing music before bed increased sleep quality in older adults, and calming music was considerably better than rhythmic music at enhancing sleep quality. According to the experts, relaxing music can help you sleep better by reducing your blood pressure and slowing your heart rate and breathing. As a result, your tension and anxiety levels are reduced.
Researchers also discovered that listening to music for more than four weeks improves sleep quality more than listening to music for less time.
What Does This Research Mean for You?
If you're having difficulties falling and staying asleep, listening to music can be a safe, effective, and simple solution. It may also lessen your need for sleep aid drugs.
CONCLUSION
People who listened to music against those who did not; People who listened to calm music versus those who listened to rhythmic music; and People who listened to music for less than four weeks versus those who listened to music for more than four weeks What the Scientists Discovered
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