The Psychosocial and Physiological Effects of Choir-Singing in People with Dementia

Abstract

Abstract: We conducted a pilot study to assess the expected effects of regular choir-singing in persons with dementia. We measured psychosocial and physiological outcomes in the 19 choir members ( Mage = 76.95) with mild-to-moderate dementia. We evaluated the weekly choir rehearsals individually (situational measurements) and overall (pre-/posttests). Our data suggested significant increases in emotional well-being during the choir sessions and significant reductions in cortisol levels in saliva as an indicator of stress. Observations by the caregiving relatives confirmed the positive influence of choir-singing on participants’ emotional and communication behavior. The results of the pilot study reveal the therapeutic potential of choir-based music interventions in persons with dementia and show that these effects can be demonstrated in community-based singing programs.