Background Music in elderly nursing home: a feasibility explorative study

Introduction. This study explores how a background music-listening program within residential facilities for the elderly can influence the general environment and be effective on psychological and behavioral aspects. The feasibility of this type of intervention was explored. Methods and Materials. Twenty-nine residents involved in the experiment were observed for 4 weeks in absence of a music intervention and for the same period during the experimental condition. The intervention consisted in music listening programs, designed by trained music therapists for specific objectives according to the different times of the day. Experimental and control condition effects were compared through the administration of clinical scales and observational grids. Results. The results of clinical scales showed that music listening programs reduced behavioral symptoms in 7 out of 8 people with the most severe neuropsychiatric symptoms. The observational scheme completion showed a clear improvement in all outcomes considered, with the exceptions of agitation (in the morning) and irritability (in the afternoon). Discussion. The study brings several points to attention, including the need to establish a set of criteria in music listening programs selection and administration (e.g. identification of music characteristics related to objectives and outcomes, assessment strategies, involvement of a team of professionals). Implementing evidence-based clinical practice is crucial and the highlighted results encourage the introduction of music-listening approaches as part of therapeutic interventions in elderly nursing homes.