Positive Health Online

Abstract

METZGER, University of Missouri-Kansas City, USA, has assessed the use of music by patients in cardiac rehabilitation.

Background

The primary cause of morbidity and mortality in the USA is heart disease. Music therapy is a viable collaborative method in the psychosocial arena for alleviating risks and motivating rehabilitation from cardiac events. There is research to support the use of music to modulate heart rate and blood pressure, to enhance exercise programs, and to relieve stress symptoms. However, inconsistencies in the results of this research warrant continued efforts to find scientific means of establishing interventions with measurable outcomes. This project aimed at administering a music therapy survey in order to determine current use and preference for music in a cardiac rehabilitation programme.

Methodology

Patients who were attending rehabilitation sessions in a large city hospital completed a survey on which they rated their level of use of music for exercise, relaxation, and enjoyment. Information was also gathered about musical preferences, musical experiences, and pertinent demographics.

Results

Patients, mostly white men over the age of 60, showed positive responses to the aesthetically pleasurable aspects of music. The use of music as a stimulus cue for exercise was decidedly absent. Nursing staff members were receptive to the project, and both staff and patients showed interest for learning about music for therapeutic purposes.

Conclusion

The results suggest that education about and development of music therapy in a cardiac rehabilitation program is warranted.

References

Metzger LK. Assessment of use of music by patients participating in cardiac rehabilitation. Journal of Music Therapy 41(1): 55-69, Spring 2004.