This web site is a great description of music therapy and it's effects on the elderly. The benefits of music and music therapy with depressed elderly are described. This site references two additional websites and a mailing address that are available for additional information. Inc. 175 Fifth Ave. This book explains how the aging population has a common problem of loneliness which results in depression.
Music evokes emotions from a time when they felt more needed.
Music allows people to socialize. People can discuss their pleasant memories from a particular time period. They can socialize in choruses or orchestras where a music therapist can even set the mood with a certain type of music. Music encourages motivation and a feeling of importance. Patients with depression should only be given praise in the beginning of the therapy.