The Impact of Music Therapy on Older Adults: An Experimental Examination of Physiological Changes through Cardiorespiratory Analysis

Music is widely considered to be an essential component which allows us to feel profound emotions, trigger memories and improve well-being. It has also been shown in assessments to improve physiology and cognitive functions change among older adults. We investigated 20 music therapy (MT) sessions over five months on healthy individuals aged 65 to 85, focusing on physiological changes as indicated by Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA) and cognitive function improvements. RSA, a marker of autonomic nervous system, reflects parasympathetic activity, with higher levels denoting enhanced physiological regulation and emotional balance. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three intervention groups—one-to-one, small group, or community—to determine the relative efficacy of different MT formats on physiological and cognitive outcomes. Generally, RSA improvements were observed across the intervention formats, underscoring the universal benefit of MT. Also, significant cognitive improves observed, supporting music's innate capacity for promoting cognitive processes regardless of the interpersonal settings. The study also revealed improved mood and emotional well-being among participants, aligning with prior research on MT's mood-enhancing properties. However, limitations such as participant attrition and the absence of a non-musical control group suggest directions for future research, including more robust study designs and the exploration of MT's comprehensive benefits. Overall, our findings advocate for the integration of MT in interventions aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults, highlighting its effectiveness in fostering physiological control, cognitive functions, and emotional well-being. These insights encourage the use of MT as a non-pharmacological intervention in regular care activities for older adults, to enhance older individuals' physiological functioning, cognition, and general well-being.