Experiences of group therapeutic songwriting of family caregivers of people with dementia

Abstract

Previous studies have shown the benefits of group therapeutic songwriting (GTSW) in the quality of life and well-being of caregivers of people with dementia. The objective of this study was to explore the experience of caregivers in a collaborative process of songwriting. Twenty-one caregivers divided into three groups received 12 60-min GTSW sessions led by a qualified music therapist. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze open-question questionnaires, a focus group, the last session video, and song lyrics. Four themes emerged: (1) GTSW generates a sense of connection, (2) it is a motivating, empowering, and meaningful experience, (3) it promotes emotional connection in a personal space, and (4) it increases well-being. Qualitative findings suggest that GTSW is a therapeutic tool that promotes caregivers’ connectivity, expression of emotions, and well-being. Limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed.

Music therapy for supporting informal carers of adults with life-threatening illness pre- and post-bereavement; a mixed-methods systematic review

“…STAI: the mean score on the post-test STAI was significantly higher compared to baseline ( p =.04), with a medium effect size (0.53). RSS: the mean score on RSS was significantly higher in the post-test measure than at baseline ( p =.03), with a medium effect size (0.47) Garcia-Valverde et al (2022) [ 77 ], Spain Qualitative study (open-question questionnaires, focus group, the last session video, and lyrics of three songs composed, inductive thematic analysis) Family carers ( n =31) Mean age: 63.87 (SD=13.62) Gender: 24 female, 7 male Individuals with dementia ( n =21), including 14 patients staying in temporary residential respite care facility Stage not specified Delivered at pre-bereavement, carers targeted Group therapeutic songwriting program N/A N/A Four themes: (1) GTSW generates a sense of connection, (2) it is a motivating, empowering, and meaningful experience, (3) it promotes emotional connection in a personal space, and (4) it increases wellbeing. Qualitative findings suggest that GTSW is a therapeutic tool that promotes carers’ connectivity, expression of emotions, and wellbeing.…”

“…Collaboratively created lyrics, then music), and recorded the song. Groups came together for joint closing to share songs and experiences 12 x 60-minute sessions, over 3 months Qualified music therapist Intervention protocol Model and sessions were designed and facilitated by researcher music therapist All groups received same intervention protocol National Reference Centre for Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia Care of Salamanca (acronym in Spanish, CREA) - music therapy room 3 groups ( n =6-9 members) Garcia-Valverde et al (2022) [ 77 ], Spain Not reported Delivered at pre-bereavement, directed only to carers Group therapeutic songwriting program (GTSW) In four phases: 1. developed group climate; 2. promoted connection and expression through therapeutic singing and musical collage, and explored potential song themes on canvas; 3. collaboratively created lyrics, then music; 4. recorded the song and groups came together for joint closing to share songs and experiences 12 x 60-minute sessions, over 3 months Qualified music therapist Manualised protocol implied. Intervention process developed in earlier study [ 76 ] Interventions delivered by first author All groups followed same intervention protocol The music therapy room of the CREA (see above [ 76 ]) 3 groups ( n =6-9 members) Hanser et al (2011) [ 65 ], USA Not reported Delivered at pre-bereavement, directed primarily to patient Music-facilitated stress reduction program (delivered by carer to patient) Training session: music therapist met dyad to discuss musical selections (from list of recordings), and rehearse how IWD could be engaged with music Individualised CDs with recorded instructions.…”

“… “Participants also focused on Therapeutic Song Writing (TSW) as a positive social opportunity that was different to other group experiences. […] “the music allowed you to sort of interchange with other people .” ([ 77 ], p.9) …”

“… “We have all felt like one big family, sharing the pain, joys, tears, laughter. There is comprehension and affection in every moment experienced.” ([ 77 ], p.8) …”

Songwriting Group Music Therapy to promote psychological adjustment in informal caregivers of elderly people with dependency: a mixed methods study

“…Comparing these findings, the outcomes are consistent with previous studies conducted with informal caregivers. A recent study using thematic analysis to assess informal caregivers’ experiences of participating in a songwriting group found that caregivers reported personal improvement, exploration and expression of emotions, group identification, connection, and mutual support ( García-Valverde et al, 2022 ). Another study found that group songwriting enabled caregivers to experience personal growth, insights about coping, connection, and group identity ( Baker et al, 2018 ).…”