Thirteenth International Conference on The Arts in Society

Abstract

Can choirs reduce social isolation, increase quality of life and reduce caregiver burden? Voices in Motion (ViM) is an intergenerational choir for persons living with early- to- moderate stage dementia (PwD), their care partners, and high school students. Arts-based approaches to dementia are unique in shifting the attention away from memory losses and activity limitations towards participation and preserving identify. Singing in a choir is a joyful and emotional experience that promotes social connections. It is an activity reinforces one’s sense of identity, competence, and accomplishment. Singing has positive affective outcomes that include improved mood, increased energy, reduced stress, increased self-esteem and confidence. Singing is an inexpensive, meaningful and joyful activity that can improve mood, increase energy, reduce stress, and increase self-esteem. This pilot study (conducted in Spring 2018) evaluates the impact of an intergenerational dementia friendly choir (n=28) that is inclusive, supportive and focuses on the potential for growth and creativity, regardless of memory loss. A mixed-methods design is used to assess the effects of the choir participation on quality of life, cognition, and social networks. Discussion will focus on the promise of such interventions for quality of life, social connections, and caregiver support.