Bill Fraser | Wellness Committee

The authors note in the preface that Active Ageing with Music is a resource for those “ working in the fields of music , education , or psychology of music ” and that this book will be of interest to individual older adults who are interested in how they may preserve and sustain their cognitive , social , and emotional well-being throughout the latter stages of their lives .

The introduction is filled with charts and statistics . Because the research was done in the United Kingdom , some of the institutions and programs referred to are specific to the UK .

There are three main sections . Each deals with aspects of the social , emotional , mental , and physical health benefits of being involved in music . Social interaction , one of the biggest benefits of being involved in music programs , that can give purpose and reason for getting up and getting out of the house to interact with others . The book even suggests how to arrange rooms for tea and visiting — and music . While the music is important , so is the social interaction .

Physical benefits of vocal music are described as reduced

58 | arta . net stress , and improved posture , flexibility , and lung capacity . Warm-up exercises include those for stretching , breathing , and proper posture . This light physical exercise carries over into everyday life . Singing , while enjoyable , is also work and provides a level of exercise that singers may not even realize . The writers also note that there is an emotional and social feeling that comes from being part of a group that is creating some great music .

The final pages deal with motivation and overcoming a lack of self-confidence that may stop individuals from joining such a group . The writers also stress the need for people to work with reticent individuals and encourage them to join a group .

Finally , the book has personal comments and observations from individuals that speak very strongly of the benefits of music in their lives . Each chapter contains personal testimonials from seniors about what music has meant to them . Many testimonials are from those in their 70s and 80s and speak of the pleasure and value that they see in their participation in these music programs . ●

Active Ageing with Music : Supporting Wellbeing in the Third and Fourth Ages

By Andrea Creech , Susan Hallam , Maria Varvarigou , and Hilary McQueen

Stylus Publishing , 2014 Paperback , 202 pages Not available as an ebook

Available in the ATA Library , Barnett House

The Wellness Committee has added this book to the ATA Library . It can be checked out by telephone , email , or in person at Barnett House .