Sing Your Lungs Out: a qualitative study of a community singing group for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

OBJECTIVE

To explore the ways in which participation in a community singing group contributed to the health and well-being of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

DESIGN

Qualitative description, based on transcripts from individual interviews and a focus group meeting with people with COPD participating in the singing group, regarding their experience.

SETTING

Urban community, Wellington, New Zealand.

PARTICIPANTS

23 people (13 women and 10 men), 51-91 years with COPD (21) or interstitial lung disease (2).

RESULTS

The weekly singing group was a well-attended activity, with self-reported benefits to health and well-being. 4 key themes were identified: being in the 'right space', connection, purpose and growth, and participation in a meaningful physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

This study helps us to better understand how participation in a community singing group can benefit the health and well-being of patients with COPD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12615000736549; Results.