The Effectiveness of Analytical Music Videos Appreciation in Elderly People with Depressive Mood

Purpose:

To compare the effects of meaningful fast music videos (MV) and soothing music MV on HRV (heart rate variability), SC (skin conductance), and EMG (electromyography) and depression in elderly people with depressive mood.

Methods:

Thirty participants were randomly assigned to a meaningful fast music/soothing music MV sequence or soothing music/ fast music MV sequence. The MV music was played on an iPad. Each intervention lasted 30 minutes, and was held at the participant’s home. Continuous measurements of HRV, SC and EMG were taken throughout the procedure. Depression was measured before and after each intervention.

Results:

Both interventions had beneficial effects on HRV, SC and EMG and depression. Significant differences between the two interventions were also observed for depression, and HRV. Fast music was more effective in lessening depression (p < 0.05). All participants rated that both MV were meaningful to them. 

Conclusion:

Both MV interventions were beneficial, as measured on psycho-physiological indices. The beneficial effects of fast MV were more powerful than those of soothing MV in reducing depression and improving the low/high frequency (LF/HF) ratio component of heart rate variability.