The role of solo music listening on loneliness and social connectedness in older adults

Loneliness has become an increasingly prevalent concern among older adults. A number of adverse physical and mental health outcomes may result from loneliness in this age group including cognitive decline and depression. These outcomes may lead to a higher strain on healthcare systems. Finding accessible and cost-effective strategies for reducing loneliness and increasing feelings of social connectedness is important for the well-being of older adults. Solo music listening is commonly used to regulate emotions and to promote well-being. While some preliminary evidence suggests that these benefits may extend to loneliness, research has not been clear on the functions or qualities of music that are most effective for older adults. This research project consists of two parts. In Part 1, qualitative interviews were conducted with older adults to determine what functions of music are most often used and most beneficial in reducing loneliness. Part 2 will consist of a mixed-design experiment incorporating both between subjects (listening condition) and within subjects variables (pre-post measures). This study has 4 listening conditions. The top three characteristics obtained from Part 1, nostalgia, comfort, and distraction, will represent the three music conditions. The fourth condition will be a pink-noise control. Prior to the experiment, participants will self-select three pieces from each of the three music conditions. After selecting their music, they will be randomly assigned to either a music or pink-noise condition. Participants in the three music conditions will listen to the three self-selected pieces that adhere to their assigned condition. Loneliness and social connection outcomes will be assessed before and after listening using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Potential moderators will be assessed after listening, which include nostalgia, absorption in music, and music reward. The results of this project will clarify whether psychological benefits of decreased loneliness and increased social connectedness can be found through music listening to enhance well-being, and whether singing along provides additional benefits. These findings may also be useful in developing future music-based interventions for reducing loneliness.