Music in therapy and loneliness in the elderly

Abstract

Abstract provided by author:

The study focused on elderly people, as the elderly may be a neglected group as far as research in Namibia is concerned. The elderly may come from a generation where it is not as acceptable to talk about one's problems. It seems as if they are reluctant to seek psychological help, therefore they may not always report their loneliness. Intuitively the researcher recognises the pleasure and personal value experienced through music and thought it to be an appropriate therapeutic vehicle

An intervention study was done. As part of the quantitative research a loneliness scale was administered to a sample of eight elderly from two old age homes in Windhoek. After this, the music in therapy therapeutic intervention using music as a tool took place and the loneliness scale was administered again. A semi-structured interview was used to add a qualitative flavour. This created a more personalised view and generated a deeper understanding of the topic

The intervention included music, which was familiar and soothing. One of the aims of the intervention was to let the elderly reminisce about the past. The experience of feelings and relaxation through music was also included in the intervention and possible communication with other members of the old age home was encouraged through this process

The most important conclusions to be drawn from this study are that the elderly in the old age homes represented in this study, may experience loneliness, if even to just an extent. They seem to employ effective strategies to curb this loneliness, like for instance reminiscence. It is also suggested that their repertoire of skill increases with age as sustainability of manoeuvres becomes problematic. It further seems as if the music therapy intervention may have lessened some of the feelings of loneliness and thus contributed to the wellbeing of the elderly involved in this study

Music may provide a more sustainable manoeuvre to curb loneliness. Music in therapy may also enhance the quality of life especially in the lives of the elderly