Lifestyle Listen to Music Today 6/28/2024 | By Kari Smith Music has changed over the decades, and so have the ways to listen to music. Musician and writer Kari Smith suggests some modern ways for seniors to soak in the sounds of music – to “Listen to the Music” using today’s technology! As I pondered the best Father’s Day gift for “the dad who has everything,” I considered the Alexa Echo Dot speaker with an annual unlimited music membership. I hesitated, since my dad, at almost 80, sometimes feels trepidation over learning new technology. Would he feel comfortable talking to a machine, asking it to play songs or artists he wanted to hear? Not only did he quickly adjust to talking to an inanimate object, he truly raves about it every time I see him, and has since received a second one for his upstairs area. He marvels at how this device, which fits in the palm of his hand, brings him joy by knowing virtually any song by any artist he mentions – especially the artists of his day. Since he lives alone, the constant companionship of familiar music in his home is like an old friend that breaks the silence, keeps his memory sharp as he recalls song lyrics, and, in general, makes him happy. In addition to the joy it brings, music has proven benefits for the brain, and specifically those with memory-related disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. As an example, the legendary Tony Bennett continued to deliver flawless performances even after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Related: Music to Your Ears – And Your Brain Modernizing music options Many seniors have held on to old-school music technology, such as turntables (which are actually making a comeback), stereo equipment, CD players, cassette players, and radios. However, as older equipment starts to break down, it becomes harder to find parts or repair options, and it may be time to consider something new. In addition, some artists release digital versions of their music instead of physical versions, such as vinyl and CDs. If you’re ready to listen to music in today’s formats, what are the options? Let the music play Using streaming services from a smartphone, tablet, smart speaker, or laptop is a simple way to listen to music using today’s technology. There are many paid and free streaming services to suit your needs, including Apple Music, Spotify, TIDAL, Pandora, and Amazon Music. Spotify and Pandora offer a free version with ads, while the others require a monthly fee for tuning in. However, it is important to note that free streaming services do not financially compensate hard-working artists and writers for their work, and even paid streaming services provide minimal compensation. For example, the streaming service that currently pays artists the most, TIDAL, offers their highest rate pay rate of just around one cent per song play. YouTube offers different ways of listening to music. You can search YouTube’s main platform to see music videos, lyric videos that show all of the lyrics to your favorite songs, or even videos of performers talking about their craft or delivering unique street performances. YouTube Music service offers complete albums, singles, videos, and live performances that can be listened on your computer, smartphone, and many smart TVs. Satellite radio is another option, whether you spend a lot of time in a vehicle or use it on computer or connect it with a smart device such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Although you cannot request specific songs, you can select a station that plays the type of music you enjoy, which allows you to hear different artists and even expand your music tastes. Yearly paid memberships, such as SiriusXM, offer the ability to listen to over 100 channels of music, talk radio, sports, and podcasts. Extend your range Smart devices simplify the process for those with mobility or other challenges, since they allow a user to simply speak what they would like to hear. Smart devices like Amazon Alexa can connect to other accounts, including Apple Music, Pandora, and Spotify. My dad uses Amazon Music through his Alexa Echo Dot to request songs from his recliner – like “Alexa, play ‘Walkin’ After Midnight,’” or “Alexa, play songs by Patsy Cline” – and voila, the music plays. As he prepares for double knee replacement surgeries, I am happy he will have an option that allows him to enjoy entertainment (or ask for the time or weather, set an alarm, or even call me or emergency services) without having to stand up. Small, cordless Bluetooth speakers and headphones are perfect for taking your music with you, from the front porch to the back patio, to an upstairs space and even working in the yard. Send your music to the speaker from another device, such as your phone, laptop, or tablet, for louder, clearer music quality. If you’re looking for quality, you spend around $150 for the Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Speaker, a portable, wireless, waterproof option that can safely be used outdoors and by the pool. Or spend around $25 for a more economical speaker like MusiBaby, still highly reviewed and rated. Those with hearing difficulties can listen to music through hearing aids, utilizing a Bluetooth connection. Not all hearing aids offer this option, and the specific features and compatibility can vary depending on the model and technology level of the hearing aid. Regardless of how you choose to, listen to the music! Create a playlist with all of your favorites or with songs to play while you are waking up, exercising, winding down, etc. Choose a station that you like that will introduce you to new songs you may not have heard before. As the Doobie Brothers would say, you’ll be “feeling good, feeling fine!” Related: Music Therapy for Seniors As an Amazon Associate, Seniors Guide earns from qualifying purchases of linked products. Read More Kari Smith Kari Smith is a frequent contributor to Seniors Guide, helping to keep those in the senior industry informed and up-to-date. She's a Virginia native whose love of writing began as a songwriter recording her own music. In addition to teaching music and performing in the Richmond area, Kari also enjoys riding horses and farming.