The Best Music for Senior Living Communities

Music is more than just a source of entertainment—it’s a powerful tool that can enhance the emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being of older adults. In senior living communities, the right music can spark memories, ease agitation, reduce loneliness, and create moments of connection that deeply resonate with residents and caregivers alike.

So, what kind of music works best for senior living communities? The answer is both personal and universal.

1. Nostalgic Favorites from Residents’ Era

Songs from the 1940s through the 1970s often hold special meaning for many older adults. These familiar tunes help spark autobiographical memories and open the door for joyful reminiscence. Genres like classic jazz, big band, swing, folk, early rock ‘n’ roll, and golden-age pop are among the most commonly loved.

Examples:

• Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole
• The Beatles, Elvis Presley, The Supremes
• Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, The Andrews Sisters

2. Calming and Ambient Music

Music that promotes relaxation is especially helpful for residents living with anxiety, dementia, or experiencing sundowning symptoms. Instrumental tracks, nature soundscapes, and soft classical pieces can help reduce agitation and foster a peaceful environment.

Ideal for:

• Winding down in the evening
• Creating a calm dining or care space
• Helping residents sleep or relax

3. Uplifting and Energetic Tunes

Sometimes what a community needs is a little energy! Music with a steady rhythm and positive lyrics can elevate mood, encourage movement, and help motivate participation in activities or group exercise.

Great for:

• Morning routines
• Fitness classes
• Social events and celebrations

How MusicFirst Supports Personalized Care

At Coro Health, we understand that music needs to be as unique as the individuals it serves. That’s why MusicFirst offers a clinically-designed, on-demand music platform tailored to support emotional and cognitive health. Whether it’s for memory stimulation, relaxation, or spiritual reflection, MusicFirst makes it easy to find the right music for the moment.

With categories like Wake, Relax, Energy, and Sleep, staff can easily select music to match a resident’s mood or need. And because it’s available on any device, MusicFirst works beautifully in resident rooms, common areas, and even during one-on-one sessions.

Music Prescription Builder: Customization Made Simple

To take personalization even further, the Music Prescription Builder allows caregivers and staff to create custom music programs based on resident preferences, medical needs, and therapeutic goals. It’s an intuitive, evidence-based tool that simplifies music selection while delivering meaningful impact.

Imagine being able to craft a playlist for a resident that includes their favorite gospel songs, a touch of big band jazz, and a calming track to help with sleep. With the Music Prescription Builder, it’s possible—with just a few clicks.