Music is a part of nearly every culture around the world, which begs the question, why do we humans love music so much? Is it because our brains love patterns and music is made up of them with harmonies, melodies, and rhythm? It could be because music engages different regions of the brain, especially those responsible for emotions like love and happiness.
The reason we humans love music so much has been well-documented in studies for decades. It has a positive effect on our mental and physical health at any age but is especially beneficial to older adults. Just like a brisk walk can improve your physical health, listening to music is exercise for the mind. Unlike speech, music is stored in different regions of the brain so while we can’t remember what our new neighbor said their name was ten minutes ago we can recall all the lyrics to Johnny Cash’s classic hit, “Walk the Line” after just hearing a few notes of the song, even if we haven’t listened to it for years. Music is associated with memory, and listening to it and singing along or playing an instrument has been shown to reduce your risk of developing dementia.
Music also benefits our physical and mental health by prompting the brain to release the neurotransmitter dopamine, which invokes feelings of happiness and contentment. Music’s ability to lift our mood helps reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, common issues for many older adults, especially those that live alone. Difficulty sleeping is common as we age and music has been shown to improve our ability to fall asleep and the quality of our rest.
Music is definitely something Golden West Towers residents enjoy. Fortunately, they live in Boulder, a city with a thriving music scene with lots of opportunities to enjoy a variety of musical genres. Residents can enjoy free outdoor musical performances all summer long at the Bands on the Bricks summer concert series every Wednesday evening through August 2. The Twenty Ninth Street “Summer of Love” concert series is also free featuring well-known local artists such as Chris Daniels and the Kings, and Hazel Miller. If symphony or opera music is what you prefer, then Arts in the Park is for you and tickets are only $10.
Towers residents don’t have to venture far from home, though, to enjoy great live music. Golden West regularly hosts musicians like the Foggy Tops Bluegrass Band or Alan Littman whose line-up of classic songs get residents singing along in no time.
If it sounds like Golden West is playing your song give us a call at 303-444-3967 or visit the website to schedule a tour of the Towers available apartments and bring your dancing feet to our safe, thriving, and welcoming community.