Singing is often associated with numerous health benefits, including improved lung capacity, posture, and overall physical health. A recent study from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine suggests that even virtual group singing offers significant benefits for older adults, particularly those with neurocognitive disorders like dementia.
The research, in collaboration with Illinois-based Sounds Good Choir, explored the feasibility and impact of virtual group singing among adults over 55 during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when isolation significantly affected the health of older individuals. The study found that virtual singing fosters well-being and social connectivity, which is crucial in times of isolation. Principal investigator Dr. Borna Bonakdarpour highlighted that beyond pandemic circumstances, virtual singing could aid individuals in rural areas, those with limited mobility, or those experiencing social anxiety. "We found virtual group singing could provide emotional, cognitive and social support through accessible, engaging music programs for diverse aging populations," Dr. Bonakdarpour stated.
The results of this research, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, emphasize that singing activates neurophysiological processes, enhancing lung capacity, posture, and physical health. Choral singing has been recognized as therapeutic for both cognitively healthy older adults and those with dementia or neurocognitive disorders. For these individuals, music offers alternative expression methods, facilitating communication akin to the interaction seen in individuals with aphasia. "Singing familiar songs can help facilitate communication and create a comfortable, low-pressure environment for interaction and sharing,” Bonakdarpour noted.
The study compared two different virtual singing interventions: a sing-along series and a structured choir leading to a virtual concert. The 176 participants reported high satisfaction, notably regarding anxiety reduction, social connection, and physical well-being. Many remarked on the emotional resonance evoked by sing-alongs and the intellectual engagement from choir participation.
Dr. Bonakdarpour noted the significance of providing a sense of normalcy during disruptions such as the pandemic. “Participants in the group choir during the pandemic consistently described the activity as providing a sense of normalcy amid widespread disruption," he said. This normalcy is particularly vital for individuals with dementia, as it supports their psychological well-being and sense of self, especially in times of external upheaval.
The study's next phase involves a nationwide trial supported by the National Institutes of Health Music Dementia Research Network. Titled, “Virtual Group Singing Programs for Well-being in Healthy Older Adults and Persons with Neurocognitive Disorders During early COVID-19 Pandemic: A Perspective from Chicago,” the study also includes contributions from Northwestern authors Clara Takarabe and Elena Barbieri, as well as Sandy and Jonathan Miller from Sounds Good Choir. Funding for the study was provided by Sounds Good Choir.