The meaning of music in the lives of older people

A Qualitative Study

Bibliographic Data

ID5778001
AuthorsTerrence Hays (University of New England), Minichiello (0000-0002-4613-881X, University of New England)
Year2005
Volume33
Issue4
Pages437-451
Publication date2005-09-29
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenuePsychology of Music (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0305-7356 • E-ISSN: 1741-3087
PublisherSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/0305735605056160
OpenAlexW2119514289
LanguageEN
Citations received69
References cited20

This qualitative study describes the experience of music and focuses on the emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual well-being roles that music plays in the lives of older people. In-depth interviews were used to explore the meaning, importance and function of music for 52 older Australians living in the community aged 60 years and older. The findings revealed that music provides people with ways of understanding and developing their self-identity; connecting with others; maintaining well-being; and experiencing and expressing spirituality. The results show how music contributes to positive ageing by providing ways for people to maintain positive self-esteem, feel competent, independent, and avoid feelings of isolation or loneliness. The study highlights the need to be better informed about how music can facilitate and sustain older people's well-being

Isolation · Social isolation · Well-being · Music History and Culture · Music Therapy and Health · Neuroscience and Music Perception

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