Understanding Therapeutic And Economic Benefits Of Group Singing For Persons With Dementia In Senior Living Facilities — And The Staff Who Support Them

RESEARCH TEAM

Arla Good, PhD  Frank A. Russo, PhD   Amy Clements-Cortés, PhD | Toronto Metropolitan University
Kate Dupuis, PhD | Sheridan College

BACKGROUND

Older adults residing in long-term care homes often face challenges such as social isolation and loneliness, but existing research suggests that singing with others can foster social connection, elevate quality of life, improve specific health outcomes, and enhance overall well-being. While studies have demonstrated the therapeutic benefits of incorporating choir programs for individuals in long-term care homes, little attention has been given to assessing the potential advantages of such programs for staff members. This pilot study is exploring the benefits of a group singing program for both residents living with dementia and care staff members — including the potential for group singing programming to improve mental health, reduce stress, and alleviate burnout among staff. We hypothesize that group singing will foster social connections, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being for residents, while potentially reducing staff absences and increasing staff retention. 

METHODS

Choir programs were established at two senior care facilities in the GTA: Amica on the Avenue and Wellbrook Place. SingWell researchers collected data from residents before and after singing, including self-report surveys, heart rate variability using heart rate arm bands, and cortisol and oxytocin via saliva samples. Care staff self-reported on their sense of burden, distress, and wellbeing on days with and without group singing programming. 

RESULTS

This study is currently in progress. Use the box below to sign up for our newsletter to hear about research updates and activities as we announce them!

KNOWLEDGE DISSEMINATION

We expect the data collected from this study could be utilized to inform internal policy briefs, program proposals, and budgetary support for more impactful recreation programming in long-term care homes. Furthermore, based on the outcomes of our study, we intend to create a program template and a best practice guide that can be shared with other long-term care and retirement operators looking to implement similar group singing programs.

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