Music Among Family Carers of People With Life-Threatening Cancer

Journal

Music and Medicine

Year

2011

Abstract

Family caregivers of people with cancer may struggle as they observe the effects of the illnesses and experience the demands of caregiving amid potential loss. In order to provide beneficial support, health care professionals need to understand factors that promote caregivers’ resilience. This research explored the role of music. Twelve caregivers were recruited and data were collected through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was informed by grounded theory. Six thematic findings emerged: caregivers’ music backgrounds affect their cancer experiences; caregivers’ use or nonuse of music is associated with how they cope with the patients’ illnesses; music can help improve biopsychosocial and spiritual well-being; music can be used in caring; music may intrude; and music is recommended. Recommendations are that health care organizations providing supportive cancer care might consider offering music-based care and that health professionals may consider inquiring about caregivers’ musical lives to increase their understanding about caregivers’ resilience or vulnerability. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)

Music and Health Institute Terms

Cancer; Caregivers; Coping; Music and Healing; Resilience; Stress Management; Wellness and Well-Being ((Outcome))

Indexed Terms

Caregivers: Family: Music: Neoplasms: Adulthood (18 yrs & older): Young Adulthood (18-29 yrs): Thirties (30-39 yrs): Middle Age (40-64 yrs): Aged (65 yrs & older): Male: Female

Study Type

Grounded Theory Study; Qualitative Methods

Document Type

Article

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