Music therapy for institutionalised elderly persons with depression

The geriatric population of India accounts more than six per cent of the total population. The number of elderly in Kerala is expected to reach 7.2 million by 2021 and 11.9 millions in 2051. The present study was conducted to (a) assess the level of depressive symptom in institutionalised elderly persons before and after the music therapy, and (b) to evaluate the effect of music therapy on depressive symptoms in elderly.

An experimental research design with a one group pre-test post-test design was adopted. The purposive sample consisted of 40 elderly with depressive symptom. The tools used were (a) a proforma to collect socio-demographic data, (b) Geriatric Depression Scale, (c) Mini Mental Status Examination, and (d) Beck’s Depression Inventory. Each of the selected samples was given music therapy through individual walkman for 30 minutes in the evening hours for a regular period of 21 days. Post test was conducted a week after the completion of this exercise.

There was a significant reduction in the depressive symptoms before and after the experiment (t=3.65, p<0.001).

The study has major implication in the mental health practice, education, administration, and research. It’s a cost-effective and safe nursing intervention proven effective in reducing depressive symptoms. Applying music therapy shall augment the effect of alternative therapies and to apply it, there is no need for the nursing professionals to undergo any additional training.