gms | German Medical Science

The ageing population is a global concern for medical and healthcare systems worldwide. To address this social phenomenon, the concept of healthy ageing and the implementation of community-based arts programmes are developed. The present study investigates group singing as a potential intervention to improve the psychological well-being of older adults. It aims to identify how group singing is conducted for older adults and analyse the therapeutic outcomes and individual factors of the process. A systematic literature search was conducted under the guideline of the integrative review framework, and a total of 27 studies met the inclusion criteria. Analysis and synthesis resulted in: (i) a proposed intervention protocol based on the activity theory of ageing; (ii) three themes related to the therapeutic outcomes; and (iii) six individual factors related to group singing. The review found that group singing improves the psychological well-being of older adults, including their mood and quality of life. However, it also highlighted larger studies are required and a closer examination into the therapeutic mechanisms that lead to change.