Exercise for older adults

Designing Music-Based Exercise Groups for Older Adults: Practical Strategies for Movement, Engagement, and Clinical Relevance

For music therapists working in aged care or aged rehabilitation, facilitating movement-based groups that are both engaging and clinically effective can be a surprisingly complex task. This tutorial offers practical guidance and evidence-informed strategies to help you design and deliver meaningful music-based exercise sessions for older adults.

Drawing on years of clinical experience in aged care, Winifred Beevers provides a comprehensive overview of how to structure music-based exercise groups that are responsive to the physical, cognitive, and emotional needs of older adult participants.

This tutorial covers:

• Common diagnoses in aged care and aged rehabilitation, and their associated physical implications
• A range of musical techniques, repertoire, and rhythmic strategies tailored to support movement goals
• How to select and adapt equipment and instruments to target specific motor skills and functional outcomes
• Approaches for aligning musical choices with participant preferences, cultural backgrounds, and group dynamics

Whether your focus is on maintaining mobility, improving coordination, or enhancing social engagement, this tutorial equips you with adaptable tools to lead purposeful and enjoyable movement sessions grounded in therapeutic intention.

Additional resources and three optional bonus activities are included to support your continued learning and help you earn CMTE/CPD credits while refining your practice.