Music and quality of life: The status of music in Ohio nursing homes

The purpose of this study was to investigate and analyze the status of the use of music in Medicare and Medicaid-certified nursing homes in the State of Ohio. Areas of concern included qualifications of personnel planning activities; sources of ideas for planning; available materials and equipment; frequency and duration of activities; types of activities, trips or performances; intergenerational and community activities; and purposes for including music activities. To obtain this information a questionnaire was sent by U.S. Mail to the activity directors of all Medicare and Medicaid-certified nursing homes in the State of Ohio.;Networking, books, and volunteer expertise were the most frequent sources of ideas. Music instruments reported were pianos, rhythm band and small percussion. Electronic equipment and media were cassette tapes, videotapes, compact discs (CDs), and karaoke machines. More large nursing homes reported owning computers than did small homes.;Activities occurred between daily and 3--5 times per week and lasted between 30--60 minutes. One third of all facilities reported having outsiders perform weekly. Listening to recorded music, singing, and listening to live performed music were the most frequent activities. These were offered on site with very few trips.;While children performed at the majority of facilities, there were few reported intergenerational activities. Homes that employed professional musicians and music therapists reported more than average intergenerational activities. Church and volunteers were the most frequent community groups providing music. Gospel was the most popular genre with slight regional variations. Music therapy sessions involved groups and individuals, relaxation techniques, reminiscence, and sensory stimulation. Success of activities was measured by participation in facilities of all sizes, areas, and certification. Pleasure was the number one purpose for engaging residents in music activities, followed by social interactions.;Other than public school music and private instrumental lessons, activity directors received music instruction as part of their activity training and from experience. Activity directors are largely responsible for providing music within their quality of life programs. More research is needed in the area of music training for professional activity directors.