Abstract

This study presents a music therapy intervention program that addresses social support needs and purposeful life in older adults 65 years old and older, who are transitioning from private homes into long-term-care facilities. Six malleable mediators were identified to influence needs relating to social support and a purposeful life for older adults in this transition, from an analysis of data obtained from current music therapy and psychology literature from 1981 to 2011, and interviews conducted with a music therapist, social worker, and recreation therapist. Malleable mediators include: (a) to provide opportunities for interaction and build connections; (b) to develop awareness of newly-relocated residents; (c) to develop mutual support; (d) to encourage acceptance of new residents; (e) to provide opportunities for residents; and (f) to help each other and to help residents voice their opinions in the community. Action strategies were paired with the malleable mediators, and a detailed music therapy intervention program was designed. Ideas for future research related to the overall process of transition are also discussed.