Author: Bronwyn Ellis

University of South Australia

Edition: Volume 58, Number 1, April 2018

Summary: Music has long been shown to have diverse benefits for all age groups. Music therapy has been used in a variety of situations involving both physical and mental health issues. A report of a United Kingdom study on the benefits of older people’s participation in community music activities prompted an investigation of the benefits of a new initiative in an Australian regional city – a ukulele group formed by members of the local branch of the University of the Third Age (U3A). Data-gathering materials comprised a questionnaire completed by voluntary participants early in their involvement, a second questionnaire six weeks later, and a focus group near the end of the year, as well as participant observation. Both questionnaires incorporated Diener and Biswas-Diener’s Flourishing Scale (Diener et al., 2009) and questions on the physical aspects of playing the ukulele. The first also sought details of demographics, motivation for learning, musical preferences and any previous experience in learning a musical instrument. The second asked for highlights and challenges and whether the experience could be recommended to others of their age. Responses indicate enjoyment in learning something new, despite some challenges, and in being part of the group. This is supported by the fact that most original members are still attending, and many new ones have joined them.

Keywords: third age learning, arts and health, rural and regional, active ageing

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This article is part of AJAL, Volume 58:1. The entire volume is available in .pdf for purchase here.