Dalcroze Eurhythmics-based music and movement training in transitional care brain injury patients: A feasibility study

Abstract

Cognitive and motor impairments from brain injury are associated with sedentariness, falls and depression. We determined whether group-based multitask training based on Dalcroze Eurhythmics (DE) is a feasible tool to engage motor, cognitive, cardiovascular and affective function in individuals with a brain injury. Transitional care patients with traumatic brain injury or stroke were recruited from a rehabilitation hospital. The DE intervention took place for 50 minutes a day, twice a week, for 6 weeks, and included activities based on musical cues that required the use of memory, attention, coordination and balance. Typical DE activities were modified for this population. Affect, postural control, cognitive function and cardiovascular fitness were assessed before and after. Seven males aged from 23 to 71 completed the pre-test. Three used mobility aids. Six participated in the intervention, and three completed the post-test. Dropouts were due to transportation difficulty, concerns regarding medical insurance unrelated to the study, the lack of support from the staff and family, and the discomfort of being paired with another male for activities. In the three who completed the post-test, no measurable changes in function were found. A programme of longer duration may be needed to improve clinical outcomes. DE was a feasible intervention for a group of mixed physical function brain injury patients. This was facilitated with assistants to provide social variety. Adherence was high (67%). Participants responded well to the use of props and recorded music of their choosing.