Dementia-inclusive group-singing online during COVID-19: A qualitative exploration

Abstract

Introduction: There is increasing evidence of the social, physical and cognitive \nbenefits of group-singing for people living with dementia and their family carers. \nHowever, COVID-19 has necessitated the suspension of in-person group-singing \nglobally. This study explores the impact of COVID-19 on dementia-inclusive singing \ngroups and choirs in Ireland, and their facilitators’ responses. It seeks to contribute to \nthe limited literature on online group-singing and music telehealth for people living \nwith dementia and family carers. It strives to provide facilitators with practical infor mation to adapt their programmes for online delivery and continue to support the \nhealth and well-being of these populations.\nMethod: This study adopted a qualitative methodological approach. Semi-structured \ninterviews were conducted with facilitators of dementia-inclusive singing groups or \nchoirs in Ireland (n = 12).\nResults: Four main themes were generated inductively from the data using Thematic \nAnalysis: accessibility of online delivery; online vs in-person delivery; importance of \nsocial connection; adaptability and resilience.\nDiscussion: This study provides a mixed picture of opportunities and challenges \narising from online music programmes. Initial evidence indicates the ability of facil itators to successfully deliver online music programmes to a proportion of people \nliving with dementia and family carers and the capacity of members of these popula tions to engage with them. The findings support the development of sustainable \nonline groups and resources to increase the accessibility of dementia-inclusive singing \ngroups and support community-dwelling people with dementia living in rural and \nremote areas or with health or mobility challenges. However, challenges of digital \ninclusion exist.