Meaningful music in health care

Elderly patients are more at risk for complications after surgery and the number of elderly patients undergoing surgery is growing fast. Music may have a positive influence on the reduction and prevention of pain which often occur after surgery. Also it has a positive effect on anxiety and delirium for elderly patients undergoing surgery. A great advantage of music as an intervention is the fact that there are hardly any adverse side effects and it is suitable for almost every patient. Music can be presented in many ways and has been so in previous studies. Live music makes it possible to let music function as a tool for communication, or as an aesthetic experience, to create a moment of rest and meaning in the moment for patients. Person-centred live music can let patients express themselves which creates a feeling of inclusiveness and control while they are in a depending situation shortly after needing surgery. The Prince Claus Conservatoire does have extended experience in person-centred live music with elder (dementia) people and is developing a curriculum focused on person-centred live music among elder people in health care. However, live music in hospital wards is rare and there is limited experience with it. In this pilot study, which is a unique collaboration between UMCG and Prince Claus Conservatoire, we will obtain experience in performing live music for elderly patients after surgery and examining the effects on postoperative pain, anxiety, cognition, physical parameters, relaxation and satisfaction.

In this pilot study, which is a unique collaboration between UMCG and Prince Claus Conservatoire, we will obtain experience in performing live music for elderly patients after surgery and examining the effects on postoperative pain. Outcome will be compared with a control group, a group of patients elderly surgical patient who will not receive live music (similar sampling method).

30-60 min before intervention

during intervention

30-60 min after intervention

3 hours after intervention

Live music, person centred improvisation, will be performed by professional musicians for approximately 10-15 minutes, once a day for a period of at least one day and with a maximum of seven days post operatively for patients and health staff. Music will be performed by musicians of the Prince Claus Conservatoire Groningen.