Author ORCID Identifier
Date Available
5-2-2024
Year of Publication
2022
Degree Name
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
Recommended Citation
Adams, Travis, "Music as an Instrument for Healing: Exploring music therapy for increasing the quality of life for geriatric veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)" (2022). DSW Capstone Projects. 15.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/csw_grad_reports/15
Abstract
Military personnel can sometimes be put in dangerous situations that expose them to various types of traumas. Due to the nature of their work, veterans may be at a higher risk for developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a complex and challenging mental health disorder with symptoms that evolve with time. Geriatric veterans with PTSD are a particular population with unique needs that require attention and care. Music therapy is explored as a potential intervention to increase geriatric veterans' quality of life with PTSD.
Product One was a systematic review that examined the effectiveness of music therapy in improving the quality of life in geriatric non-veterans. The purpose of conducting a systematic review was to explore how music therapy impacted geriatric non-veterans in cognition, depression, anxiety, wellbeing, and mood. Conclusions from these findings were used to suggest that music therapy may be beneficial for geriatric veterans with PTSD.
Product Two was a conceptual paper that explored the theories that inform music therapy. Because music therapy is not considered a frontline therapy for PTSD, this work highlights how music therapy is beneficial for geriatric non-veterans and discusses the potential when applied to geriatric veterans with PTSD. Conclusions are drawn to suggest that music therapy should be explored as a viable treatment option for geriatric veterans with PTSD.
Product Three was an application paper that focused on how stigma and attrition may be impacting the effectiveness and engagement of evidence-based treatments. Music therapy for treating PTSD is discussed. The theories supporting music therapy were explored, and a case study was examined to display the potential of improvisation for communication and self-expression. Implications and recommendations for using music therapy to treat geriatric veterans with PTSD in social work practice are discussed.
