Barriers and Facilitators for Implementing Music Interventions in Care Homes for People with Dementia and Depression: Process Evaluation Results of the Multinational Cluster-Randomized MIDDEL Trial

Rasing N., Vink A., Schmitz M., Wake J. D., Geretsegger M., Sveinsdottir V., ...More

Behavioral Sciences, vol.15, no.8, 2025 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 15 Issue: 8
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.3390/bs15081004
  • Journal Name: Behavioral Sciences
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, Linguistic Bibliography, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Keywords: dementia, implementation, long-term care, music therapy, music-based intervention, process evaluation, program evaluation, singing
  • Ankara Haci Bayram Veli University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

A process evaluation was embedded in the multinational Music Interventions for Dementia and Depression in ELderly care (MIDDEL) trial to better understand barriers and facilitators for implementing music-based interventions (MBIs). Stakeholders from 66 care home units across 5 countries completed a survey at baseline (n = 229) and after a six-month intervention period (n = 101), comparing expectations and experiences between countries, intervention groups, and stakeholders. MBIs were evaluated and found to be relevant and feasible. Barriers include a lack of support, turnover among employees, and a lack of motivation. Facilitators include individual stakeholders who proactively facilitate and stimulate implementation, as well as the presence of stable, well-functioning teams, clear communication, and adhering to project plans. Fewer barriers than expected related to care staff workload and the time needed for implementing new MBIs in care homes. MBIs can be beneficial for people with dementia, yet implementation in care homes can be challenging due to contextual factors. Involving stakeholders in key positions is essential: care home managers are pivotal for policy-making and the sustainable adoption of MBIs, whereas the commitment and the involvement of care staff are needed for day-to-day implementation. Insight into these barriers to and facilitators of implementation can contribute to the interpretation of trial results.