Learning to perform in older adulthood: Implications for physical and mental wellbeing

Western society is rapidly changing with the ratio of older adults constantly increasing, making their contributions to society even more vital than before. Therefore, strategies enabling them to maximize their potential of living healthy, independent lives while minimizing the need for long-term (nursing) care are growing in importance. This exploratory study, a strand of the Rhythm for Life project at the Royal College of Music, London, investigated the role that music could play as such a preventive strategy. The study used a quasi-experimental mixed-methods design with 72 participants aged 50 years and older, and an age-matched control group. Participants were grouped into either experimental (learning an instrument) or control (activity as usual) groups, and assessed at baseline level and after ten weeks. Qualitative data were obtained through observation, as well as an individual case study, and quantitative data through established self-report assessment questionnaires. Results presented a positive impact of learning an instrument and making music on older adult learners, especially an improvement in mental wellbeing and hand flexibility.