THE EFFECTS OF THE USE OF MUSIC FOR THE ELDERLY: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

This study aimed to profile publications concerning music usage in the lives of the elderly. To this goal we have considered scientific studies on the quality of life of the elderly and discussed the impact of music as health promoter. This review was conducted in the Scielo, Lilacs and Capes databases searching for the subjective descriptor ‘elderly’. We have selected articles published in journals indexed between 2000 and 2011. Based on the criteria of inclusion / exclusion we have recovered 5 articles which were studied. Most are related to the area of health and medicine. Most of these only address the direct benefits music has on the health and life of the elderly, alongside with evoking the notions of well-being, quality of life, appreciation and enjoyment of life. Few studies address the conceptualization of the direct use of music in the lives of the elderly. In conclusion, the results confirm the relevance of the theme in health promotion in the elderly population. Also, the results prompts for the need of further investigations related to this practice by health professionals.