Dementia-inclusive group-singing online during COVID-19: A qualitative exploration

Introduction: There is increasing evidence of the social, physical and cognitive benefits of group-singing for people living with dementia and their family carers. However, COVID-19 has necessitated the suspension of in-person group-singing globally. This study explores the impact of COVID-19 on dementia-inclusive singing groups and choirs in Ireland, and their facilitators’ responses. It seeks to contribute to the limited literature on online group-singing and music telehealth for people living with dementia and family carers. It strives to provide facilitators with practical information to adapt their programmes for online delivery and continue to support the health and well-being of these populations. Method: This study adopted a qualitative methodological approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with facilitators of dementia-inclusive singing groups or choirs in Ireland (n = 12). Results: Four main themes were generated inductively from the data using Thematic Analysis: accessibility of online delivery; online vs in-person delivery; importance of social connection; adaptability and resilience. Discussion: This study provides a mixed picture of opportunities and challenges arising from online music programmes. Initial evidence indicates the ability of facilitators to successfully deliver online music programmes to a proportion of people living with dementia and family carers and the capacity of members of these populations to engage with them. The findings support the development of sustainable online groups and resources to increase the accessibility of dementia-inclusive singing groups and support community-dwelling people with dementia living in rural and remote areas or with health or mobility challenges. However, challenges of digital inclusion exist.