Well-being in later life through music

Abstract

Objectives: This qualitative study maps the diversity of the experience of music for older people and focuses on the emotional, social and time management roles that music plays in their lives. Methods: In-depth and focus group interviews were used to explore the meaning, importance and function of music for 54 older people living in the community aged 60 years and older. Results: The findings revealed that music provides people with ways of understanding and developing their self-identity and maintaining well-being. Music contributes to positive ageing by providing ways for people to maintain positive self-esteem, feel competent, independent, and avoid feelings of isolation and loneliness. Conclusions: The study argues that music can be used by older people to facilitate and improve well-being, and the need for gerontologists to become more aware of the potential of music.