Memory & cognition
Music can be used to encourage recall, attention and familiar routines.
Older adults & aged care
Music therapy through Support at Home
Music can create meaningful moments of connection, expression and wellbeing. If you or someone you support receives aged care services, music therapy may be an option within an approved Support at Home care plan.
Older adultsPerson-centred careRegistered Music Therapists
Music that supports
connection & wellbeing
connection & wellbeing
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✳ Therapy with purpose♡ Built around individual goals♫ No music experience needed
Understanding the program
What is Support at Home?
Support at Home is an Australian Government aged care program that helps eligible older people access services to support their independence and wellbeing at home.
Music therapy is listed among the program's allied health and therapeutic services. Whether it can be included for a particular person depends on their assessment, care goals, approved services and provider arrangements.
Read the official My Aged Care guideWhat music therapy can support
Meaningful goals, personal music
Registered Music Therapists use musical experiences tailored to each person's strengths, preferences and therapeutic goals.
Emotional wellbeing
Support expression, comfort, regulation and meaningful moments of enjoyment.
Communication
Explore connection through singing, listening, rhythm and non-verbal expression.
Movement & engagement
Use rhythm and preferred music to encourage participation and purposeful movement.
Identity & connection
Make space for favourite music, personal histories and relationships.
Family & carers
Where appropriate, involve support people in shared music and everyday routines.
These are possible therapeutic focus areas, not guaranteed outcomes. Sessions are designed around assessment and individual goals.
Getting started
How access can work
A simple pathway for individuals, families and care coordinators exploring music therapy.
01
Check your eligibility
Access to Support at Home starts with an assessment through My Aged Care.
02
Discuss your care plan
Ask your Support at Home provider whether music therapy could meet an assessed therapeutic goal.
03
Enquire with JAM
Share the type of support you're exploring. JAM can discuss suitability and current service availability.
04
Confirm the arrangements
Where appropriate, confirm approval, referrals, location, fees and scheduling before therapy begins.
Working together
Supporting the whole care team
Good music therapy starts with understanding the person. Where suitable and with consent, music therapists can work alongside family members, carers, aged care coordinators and other health professionals to support meaningful goals.
- Client-led therapeutic goals
- Respect for musical preferences and life experiences
- Communication with authorised support people
- Review of progress and changing needs
Frequently asked
Questions about Support at Home
Some useful answers before you begin an enquiry.
Browse all JAM FAQsCan Support at Home pay for music therapy?
Music therapy appears on the government's list of allied health and therapeutic services. Whether it is funded for you depends on your aged care assessment, approved services and care plan. Check with your Support at Home provider.
Do I need to be able to sing or play an instrument?
No. Music therapy is adapted to the person and does not require musical skill or prior experience.
Can JAM provide sessions at home?
Please contact JAM to discuss the location and availability of aged care music therapy sessions. A home visit is not confirmed until suitable arrangements have been agreed.
How do I get started?
If you already receive Support at Home, speak with your care coordinator and contact JAM to discuss possible therapy goals. If you are new to aged care support, start with an assessment through My Aged Care.
Talk to JAM
Explore music therapy for you or someone you care for.
Not sure whether Support at Home may be suitable? Reach out and we'll talk through the next steps, subject to service availability.
You can also discuss possible funding with your existing aged care provider.
Funding and availability: This page gives general information only. JAM's availability to provide aged care services, whether sessions can take place at home, and third-party funding and contracting arrangements must all be confirmed before booking. For government eligibility and costs, visit My Aged Care.