Clinical Effects of Choral Singing for Older Adults

Abstract

This paper presents a literature summary overviewing the clinical effects of choral singing with a focus on older adults. As part one of a two part paper, this review helps to establish the framework for the research study “Singing for Health Connection and Care” presented in part two. Information is offered on the psychophysiological effects of singing; social benefits of singing; emotional benefits of singing; music in long-term care facilities and outcomes for persons with dementia and their caregivers. To date, the studies conducted as examined in this review show promising results for physical, emotional, and mental health, however further research is needed. This analysis of the literature provides the necessary background information to implement future choral singing studies with older adults and their caregivers, and serves to support the need for the study undertaken in part two.