Participants in the Music Program can join a drumming circle or play various percussion instruments, improvise music, and talk about rhythm and style. The program, "Relaxation and Stress Management through Music," was developed with help from community neurologists, a team of psychiatric physicians, and a strong partnership with CenterLight Health System’s Institute for Music and Neurologic Function.
Music, especially familiar songs, helps to unlock memories and improve communication and expression. Clinical research has supplemented these findings and demonstrated that the systematic use of music can improve gait, aphasia, balance and range of motion.
Participants in the Music Therapy Program offered by Northern Westchester Hospital reported feeling less pain, lower anxiety and improved mood. The medical staff at NWH has also noted improvements in patients’ socializing, attention span and focus. In some cases, the music therapy can improve a patient’s entire day.
Watch the video above to see musical therapy in action.
Learn more about Northern Westchester Hospital's Music Therapy Program.