Exploring the potential benefits of an online music-based meditation programme for family carers of people with dementia

Abstract

This study explores the potential psychosocial benefits of an online music-based meditation programme for family carers of people with dementia. Previous literature identifies the benefits of music and mindfulness in separate capacities for the promotion of wellbeing, positive mood and reducing isolation for family carers of people with dementia. No known literature currently exists combining meditation and music online specifically for this demographic. Thirteen family carers were recruited and participated in the study, attending a 30-minute session each week over four weeks. Additional music-based meditation resources were provided to be accessed outside the intervention at a time convenient to the participants. Data was collected through eight in-depth semi-structured interviews post intervention and analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). There was an overall positive response from participants as the majority noted that participation in the programme had a positive impact on their mood, provided an opportunity to relax and practice self-care, process difficult emotions, and reduce feelings of social isolation. The facilitation of the programme in an online format allowed participants to access the intervention from the comfort of their home environment and negated potential barriers such as organising care, geographical location, mobility issues or access to transport. Findings from this study can be used as a base on which to develop further research in this area.