How can music therapy support family relationships for people living in a long-term care facility with neuro-disabilities, when regular visits can be challenging?

This exegesis will present the findings which emerged from secondary analysis of clinical practice data collected during a music therapy placement. The setting for this research is a long-term residential care facility for people aged 18 to 65 with a variety of physical and neurological conditions, including cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, stroke and multiple sclerosis. The aim of the facility is to maximise the quality of life for the residents and support their medical needs. The research aim was developed out of a personal interest regarding how family members might be included in music therapy sessions. The research question evolved into “How can music therapy support family relationships for people living in a long-term care facility with neuro-disabilities, when regular visits can be challenging”. The core themes suggest family relationships can be enhanced through conversations, the gift of music, culture, artefacts, ritual and other activities. The findings include a case vignette to illustrate important points made in the exegesis. Overall, I believe this research will add new insight into the importance of family connections in rehabilitation and overall wellbeing for the residents.