Singing and COPD: development, implementation and evaluation of a resource to support home practice and disease self-management

Aim

To explore the use of a singing for health self-management resource for home practice within a programme of regular group singing for people with COPD.

Rationale

Research suggests that perceived symptoms of COPD can be improved through promoting self-efficacy and self-management of the condition. Previous literature on singing for breathing includes little detailed reference to any resources used to contribute to such improvement. This paper describes and evaluates a resource designed to address this.

Approach

The Singing for Better Breathing (SfBB) resource comprises a DVD of 13 films and accompanying handbook. It was developed as a practical tool for participants to use at home, as an adjunct to health education provided in an existing singing for COPD research project. The films progress through physical and vocal warm-ups plus songs which gradually demand greater vocal production and breath control. Participants were encouraged to keep diaries to record their experiences of using the resource. These were analysed using thematic analysis, supplemented by individual telephone interviews following the final session. With the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the resource was made available online.

Findings

Ten participants completed diary entries and were interviewed. All spoke positively regarding the format of the resource, and the majority found the songs to be engaging and uplifting. The use of singing as an exercise to promote breath control was reflected in a desire to demonstrate their achievements as well as the songs they had been able to sing at home.

Discussion and conclusion

The resource has continued to be popular, evidenced by its online uptake globally. Future related research should include a more detailed exploration of how those living with long-term health conditions might engage with and benefit from a singing for health resource to promote self-management.