Intergenerational Music Therapy: Effects on Literacy, Physical Functioning, Self-Worth, and Interactions

• Published in: Journal of Intergenerational relationships Vol. 18; no. 2; pp. 175 - 195
• Main Authors: Detmer, Michael R, Kern, Petra, Jacobi-Vessels, Jill, King, Kristi M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Taylor & Francis Ltd 02.04.2020
• Subjects: Age groups; Children; Intergenerational relationships; Literacy; Music; Music therapy; Older people; Perceptions; Young adults
• DOI: 10.1080/15350770.2019.1670318
• ISSN: 1535-0770

Intergenerational programs are becoming increasingly common, yet little data exists on programs involving young children and older adults. The purpose of this randomized-controlled trial was to identify the effects of an intergenerational music therapy program on children’s literacy, older adults’ physical functioning and self-worth, and interactions between the two age groups. Participants were three- and four-year-old children and older adults aged 72–98. Results indicate positive trends in nearly every dependent variable studied and a statistically significant positive outcome for the interaction between children and adults. Additionally, interviews of the older adults’ perception of the program revealed six positive themes.