# Music Therapy Outcomes in Older Adults Using Cochlear Implants, Hearing Aids, or Combined Bimodal Devices: A Systematic Review

## TL;DR

This review examines how music therapy affects older adults with hearing devices, finding benefits in sound quality, self-esteem, and quality of life.

## Contribution

The study systematically evaluates music therapy outcomes in older adults using cochlear implants, hearing aids, or bimodal devices for the first time.

## Key findings

- Music therapy improved sound quality scores (HISQUI19) from 60.0 ± 21.8 to 74.2 ± 27.5.
- Bilateral CI users showed enhanced stereo detection (52% to 86%).
- Long-term HA use was linked to better quality of life and reduced loneliness.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Cochlear implants (CIs) and hearing aids (HAs) have enhanced auditory rehabilitation in elderly individuals, yet limitations in musical perception and psychosocial integration persist. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of music therapy (MT) on the quality of life (QoL), self-esteem, auditory perception, and cognition in older CI and HA users. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed was conducted up to March 2022 following PRISMA guidelines. Studies involving participants aged ≥ 60 years with CIs and/or HAs were included. Ten studies (n = 21,632) met eligibility criteria. Data were extracted and assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Results: MT led to improved sound quality, with HISQUI19 scores rising from 60.0 ± 21.8 to 74.2 ± 27.5. Early MT exposure was associated with significantly better MUMU outcomes (p = 0.02). Bilateral CI users showed enhanced stereo detection (52% to 86%), and CI + HA users achieved CNC scores exceeding 95%. Postlingual CI users outperformed prelingual peers in musical discrimination (9.81 vs. 3.48; p < 0.001). Long-term HA use was linked to better a QoL and reduced loneliness. Conclusions: While music therapy appears to support auditory and psychosocial functioning in hearing-impaired older adults, the absence of randomized controlled trials limits causal inference regarding its effects. These results support its integration into hearing rehabilitation strategies for older adults.