A Qualitative Exploration of Aged-Care Residents’ Everyday Music Listening Practices and How These May Support Psychosocial Well-Being

Abstract

Strategies to support the psychosocial well-being of older adults living in aged-care are needed; and evidence points toward music listening as an effective, non-pharmacological tool with many benefits to quality of life and well-being. Yet, the everyday listening practices (and their associated specific psychosocial benefits) of older adults living in residential aged-care remain under-researched. The current study explored older adults’ experiences of music listening in their daily lives while living in residential aged-care and considered how music listening might support their well-being. Specifically, what might go into autonomous listening activities? 32 Australian residents (aged 73–98) living in two Australian care facilities participated in semi-structured interviews. The results of a qualitative thematic analysis revealed three themes pertaining to “previous music experiences and interest,” “current music listening,” and “barriers to listening.” While an interest in and access to music did not necessarily result in everyday listening practices, of those participants who did listen to music, perceived benefits included outcomes such as entertainment, enjoyment, relaxation, and mood regulation. Drawing on Ruud’s notion of music as a “cultural immunogen” supporting well-being and Self-Determination Theory, theoretical implications of the findings are addressed, relating to how to create and support music activities in aged-care facilities so that they are engaging, meaningful, and promote emotional regulation, community, and well-being.

The purpose of radio and how it supports older adults' wellbeing

“…This versatility in technological access may very well underpin why the radio is still so popular and relevant as a listening technology with older adults. Moreover, this versatility is important to note regarding how it can facilitate wellbeing, because previous research has shown that the provision of music listening technologies does not necessarily equate to their use (e.g., Krause and Davidson, 2021). As Krause and Davidson (2021) found, a barrier to older adults making use of listening technologies can be self-efficacy, or the belief in their capability or confidence in doing something.…”

“…Moreover, this versatility is important to note regarding how it can facilitate wellbeing, because previous research has shown that the provision of music listening technologies does not necessarily equate to their use (e.g., Krause and Davidson, 2021). As Krause and Davidson (2021) found, a barrier to older adults making use of listening technologies can be self-efficacy, or the belief in their capability or confidence in doing something. However, the radio is less likely possess this barrier as people can use technology they have and are familiar with (analog or digital) to tune in.…”