Group Music Training as a Multimodal Cognitive Intervention for Older Adults

Music training may provide an effective mean of enhancing cognitive function in older adults. However, age-related differences in learning, vision and brain plasticity may limit traditional teaching methods effectiveness for older adult learners. The Maine Understanding Sensory Integration and Cognition Project aimed to develop an economical, older-adult-friendly music intervention. The current study presents the pilot data on the effect of music training on social, emotional, and cognitive function. Results, methodology, and challenges with solutions encountered during implementation of a group music intervention for older adults are reported. Community-based participatory research methods were used to enhance recruitment of socioeconomically diverse older adults and solicit participatory feedback. Thirty-five socioeconomically diverse older adults (Mage = 70, SD = 5.12) completed the program. Participants took part in 12 weekly 1-hr recorder group lessons and underwent comprehensive pre- and postintervention neuropsychological assessments. Teaching manuals designed specifically for older adults were developed to overcome identified learning barriers in music learning. Results indicated improved executive function, global cognition, verbal fluency, and visual memory performance following the intervention, ps < .05. Participants universally reported the group provided valuable socialization and camaraderie. Subjective improvements in cognition, self-efficacy and emotional well-being as a result of participating in the music group were also found. Music training is a cognitively stimulating activity that has real-life applications. The Maine Understanding Sensory Integration and Cognition Project's manualized group intervention may provide an engaging and efficient method to enhance social and cognitive function in older adults.