KENT NEWS: Ground-breaking research into the effects of singing on health could lead to significant savings for the NHS, according to experts.
And a unique study, commissioned by Eastern and Coastal Kent NHS Trust, could also reveal whether crooning delays the onset of dementia and prevents depression in older people.
Professor Stephen Clift, who is leading the project at Canterbury Christ Church University’s Sidney De Haan Research Centre, said: “There is now more interest in how simple things can improve well-being.
"Group activities such as singing stop elderly people feeling isolated and anxious, which improves their mood and can help deal with issues such as depression.
“The more a person remains active, the healthier they are going to be. This could delay the onset of dementia.”
The 12-week project, which was made possible through £250,000 of funding from the National Institute for Health Research, is the first of its kind in the UK.
A similar study carried out in the United States found that as well as improving well-being, elderly people using group singing were less likely to have a fall.
And scientists at the University of Frankfurt in Germany published a report suggesting singing boosted the immune system through the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain reliever.
Prof Clift said: “Generally, I think an activity like this can help improve people’s well-being and stop them being so isolated. It lifts their spirits.
“It’s particularly aimed at people who don’t get out as much, so we can see the change in them to find out whether this kind of activity is beneficial.
“It will also help people with respiratory problems manage their illness by being able to control their breathing, which singing helps do.”
The project will see over-60s split into two groups, a singing group and a non-singing control group, enabling a comparison to be made. Health measures will be monitored, such as how many times they visit their GPs over the 12 weeks.
Prof Clift said: “This will allow us to test the value of singing in relation to well-being and health. As people live longer, the NHS is keen to ensure a good quality of life for the elderly.
The study will also allow us to assess whether this could result in savings for the NHS and local authority services.
“If we can prevent a small number of people being hospitalised, we can save a considerable amount.”
The project will be undertaken with partners from Sing For Life, which operates more than 40 Silver Song Clubs in the South East.
Charities working with older people are backing the study. Roma Buscall, from Age Concern in Whitstable, said: “Anything that improves social interaction and health is excellent.”
Moves to cut funding by the NHS follows a pre-Budget Government report in December which looked to slash capital spending within the health service by more than £1 billion.
Singing groups are being held in community centres in Birchington, Boughton-under-Blean, Broadstairs, Ramsgate and Whitstable. To get involved in the study, contact Isobel Salisbury on 01303 242031.
POSTED: 27/02/2010 14:00:00
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