Abstract
Modern music therapy first developed in western countries and has now spread throughout the world. This research focuses on how Japanese culture affects the implemention of Community Music Therapy (CoMT), by comparing the results of questionnaires carried out with groups of older adults in Norway and Japan. The results showed a small difference in terms of opinions expressed but significant cultural differences in the process of answering the questions set to them, which may be derived from individualistic and collectivistic cultural elements. The results are considered under five headings in the discussion section: Basic cultural difference, Self-expression, Internal relationships, Sense of community, and Role of music. We conclude that although CoMT has an important role in the social involvement of older adults regardless of cultures, cultural differences should be taken carefully into consideration.
Highlights
The issue of an aging population is of global concern1
The results above seem to uncover several cultural differences that are embedded in the both countries, and we would like to consider them from the cultural psychological point of view
In the course of analyzing the results, it became clear that choir activity is very meaningful for the older adults of both countries
Summary
The issue of an aging population is of global concern. Various welfare systems for older adults have developed in many countries, which help older adults live healthy and active lives. The growing focus on active ageing draws increased attention to musical activities for older adults. Numerous pieces of research have indicated the efficacy of musical activities for the health promotion and social participation (Bygren et al, 1996; Creech, Hallam, McQueen & Varvarigo, 2013; Hays & Miniciello, 2005; Hara, 2011; Lehtonen, 2002; McCullough, 1981; Ruokonen & Ruismäki, 2011). In a period of ageing populations it is likely that CoMT will increasingly contribute to solving the problems of older adults, especially for isolation and depression
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