This pilot study examined the effects of single sessions of music therapy on the level of anxiety in older persons with psychiatric disorders. The studied intervention was a 30 minute music therapy group and the control intervention was a verbal therapeutic intervention in the form of a reminiscence group. Participants acted as their own control. The measurement tool was the state part of a “State Trait Anxiety Inventory”. It was administered a total of four times, pre- and post- the music therapy intervention and preand post- the reminiscence therapy (control) group. A total of 9 participants were recruited for the study. The results indicated that single sessions of music therapy significantly reduced the level of anxiety for older persons with psychiatric disorders [t(8)=4.626, p<0.0017] as compared to the control intervention as measured by the state part of the “State Trait Anxiety Inventory”. There was no evidence for a significant carryover effect since the baselines prior to each intervention did not differ significantly (p=0.55). These results can be considered to be a part of a pilot study and early inquiry into this field since methodological difficulties and the time limitation of the research resulted in some necessary deviations from the original protocol. A major limitation of the study was the choice of a measurement tool, which required the client to be cognitively high functioning. Thus these results are limited to cognitively able clients, which is a relatively small proportion of this client group that could potentially benefit from music therapy. It is suggested that for future research with this client group the measured variable be physical relaxation, rather than anxiety.

Dissertation submitted in compliance with the requirements for the Master’s Degree in Technology: Nursing, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa, 2016. / Life expectancy has increased rapidly since the beginning of the twentieth century and people aged 65 and older form the fastest growing segment of the population. With the onset of old age, comes social, physical and psychological challenges that result in morbidity and loss of independent life. For some of the socially and economically marginalized elderly this often means living in a long term facility. This study determined the effect of a dance and music programme on balance and function in the residents of a selected old age home in Pietermaritzburg. Aim of the study The study determined the effect of a dance and music programme on the balance and functional ability of the residents of the old age home. Methodology A pre-test/post-test experimental design was used in this study. The eligible participants were randomly assigned to two groups, the experimental and the control groups. The experimental group participated in the 12 week programme of a dance and music programme offered twice weekly while the control group received standard care. Both groups’ functional abilities and balance capabilities were assessed before and after the intervention. Results The results revealed that dance and music programme did not statistically improve balance and function. Function improved in the experimental group post-test compared to the pre-test. Positive feelings expressed during the classes indicate that the intervention had a positive effect on the participants. Conclusion The dance and music programme improved function. It is recommended that residents of the geriatric home be offered this dance and music programme as a long term activity. / M