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Preliminary Results of a Group Music Intervention for Persons With Dementia Using Retired Volunteers as Leaders

Year: 2018
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: Music-based interventions, music therapy, and music listening are widely accepted as beneficial for increasing engagement and supporting the well-being of persons with dementia. Bringing persons with dementia together in a group setting has been shown to increase social interaction, produce positive mood, and promote feelings of belonging. Most studies supporting the efficacy of group music interventions for dementia have taken place in either assisted living facilities, or nursing homes, and are led by licensed music therapists or other professional staff. The Seniors Making Connections Through Music program is led by retired senior volunteers and is designed for persons in the moderate to advance stages of dementia living in the community. Six groups comprised of 35 participants completed the 6-session program. Twenty-one retired senior volunteers were trained to assist with a 6-session group music intervention across 3 Lake County, Ohio Senior Centers. Groups consisted of an average of 6 participants (range 4–8). Of the 35 participants, 25 (71%) completed the program without missing more than one session. Those completing the program finished with an average attendance rate of 93%. Also, 98.5% of participants report they agree or strongly agree to a series of positive statements about the program. Strong attendance rates and high levels of satisfaction suggest the group was acceptable and feasible to participants. Positive findings also support that training retired senior volunteers how to engage persons with dementia in meaningful activities is a promising and potentially cost-effective and sustainable model.
DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igy023.936
Language: English
Field: Psychology
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,977
OpenAlex ID: W2899871981
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