Music experience is associated with lower depression level and higher quality of life among family caregivers of critically ill patients

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate level of the psychological health of family caregivers of critically ill patients, considering quality of life and depression, and whether it varied depending on their individualized music use. A survey was administered in a surgical intensive care unit (ICU) of a university hospital. Adult family caregivers of ICU patients older than 18 years of age were included. Depression and quality of life were measured via self-administered scales, and emotional states were evaluated using a visual analog scale. Music use in daily life was also queried. A total of 195 caregivers (mean age, 51.2 years) participated in this study (spouses 44.6%, offspring 51.3%, and parents 4.1%). Among respondents, 44.6% were at high risk of depression, and 18.0% of these respondents reported their quality of life as poor or very poor. In terms of singing in their everyday lives, respondents who had singing experience reported higher quality of life and lower depression than those without singing experience. The results of this study support the active engagement in music as resource for caregivers of ICU patients to alleviate their emotional distress. Further investigation into diversified music use and music intervention in critical care should focus on the inclusion of family caregivers.