The Influence of Music on Brain Health

Abstract

Music has been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. More than 2000 years ago, Aristotle and Plato mentioned that music therapy was valuable. Music therapy is especially valuable for older patients. Music benefits patients’ physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. The use of music therapy has been effective in various settings, including hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. Music therapy treats various conditions, from depression and anxiety to Parkinson’s disease and dementia. This article will review the history of music therapy and its application to contemporary medicine especially its application to geriatric patients.