Music Therapy for Dementia

Jun 9, Alissa Sauer

As dementia progresses, finding effective and non-invasive ways to improve the quality of life for patients becomes increasingly important. One such method is music therapy. According to the American Music Therapy Association, music therapy is “the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.”

Recent studies have shown that music therapy can have a profound impact on people with dementia, enhancing their emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that 60% of dementia patients who participated in music therapy sessions showed a significant reduction in anxiety and agitation​ (Oxford Academic)​.

What is Music Therapy?

Music Therapy is a clinical and evidence-based practice defined by the American Music Therapy Association as “the clinical and evidence-based use of music interventions to accomplish individualized goals within a therapeutic relationship by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.”

Components of a Music Therapy Session

A music therapy session is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals and can include a variety of activities:

• Playing Instruments: Engaging in playing musical instruments to stimulate motor skills and cognitive function.
• Songwriting: Creating and composing songs to express emotions and thoughts.
• Directed Music Listening: Listening to specific pieces of music to evoke memories or emotions.
• Discussing Lyrics: Analyzing and discussing song lyrics to explore feelings and experiences.
• Dancing: Moving to the rhythm of music to enhance physical coordination and fitness.
• Creating Music: Composing and improvising music as a form of creative expression.
• Relaxation Exercises: Using music as a backdrop for relaxation and stress relief techniques.

Goals of Music Therapy

Similar to art therapy, the goals of music therapy are multifaceted and can include:

• Increased Communication: Facilitating verbal and non-verbal communication, especially in individuals with speech difficulties.
• Physical Rehabilitation: Supporting physical rehabilitation by improving motor skills and coordination.
• Increased Movement: Encouraging physical movement through rhythm and dance.
• Enhanced Motivation: Boosting motivation to engage in therapeutic activities and treatment plans.
• Emotional Support: Providing emotional support and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Emotional Expression: Offering a safe outlet for expressing complex emotions and feelings.

Evidence and Applications

Music therapy has been widely researched and is used in various settings, including hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and private practice. Studies have shown its effectiveness in reducing stress, improving mood, enhancing cognitive function, and promoting overall well-being in individuals of all ages and conditions.

Professional Standards

Music therapists are trained professionals who have completed accredited programs and hold certifications such as the Music Therapist-Board Certified (MT-BC) credential. They are equipped to assess the needs of their clients and develop personalized treatment plans that integrate music in therapeutic ways.

Why does Music Therapy Work for People with Dementia?

Recent studies show that key areas of the brain associated with music and musical memories remain largely unaffected, even as Alzheimer’s and dementia progresses. Because of this, people with dementia can still enjoy music, and in some instances, it can even improve memory recollection.

Research has shown that music therapy can significantly benefit people with dementia, including those with Alzheimer’s disease. There have been several compelling studies on the impact of music on dementia.

• Behavioral and Psychological Benefits: A study found that nursing home residents with severe Alzheimer’s who listened to personalized music playlists showed fewer signs of agitation, aggression, and other behavioral issues compared to those who did not receive music therapy. The effects, though modest, were significant during the music sessions​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research)​.
• Emotional and Cognitive Improvements: Music therapy helps stimulate positive memories and reduce stress in dementia patients. It provides a means of communication even in advanced stages when verbal abilities are diminished. Familiar music can help individuals with dementia focus and reduce agitation by providing a sense of comfort and familiarity​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research)​​ (Oxford Academic)​.
• Support for Caregivers: Music therapy also benefits caregivers by easing the burden of care. Incorporating music into care routines can improve challenging behaviors, making the caregiving process less stressful​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research)​​ (Music in Mind)​.
• Quality of Life Enhancement: Programs like Music in Mind, which train caregivers to use music therapy, have shown that music can enhance the quality of life for both dementia patients and their caregivers. These programs help build confidence in using music to create connections and improve well-being​ (Music in Mind)​.

These findings highlight the powerful role of music therapy in dementia care, offering a non-pharmacological option to improve the lives of those affected by dementia and their caregivers.

Benefits of Music Therapy for People with Dementia

Music therapy offers numerous benefits for people with dementia, significantly improving their quality of life. Here are some key benefits:

Memory Recall

Music can evoke memories and emotions from the past, even in the advanced stages of dementia. Familiar tunes can trigger memories that other forms of communication may not be able to access, helping individuals reconnect with their past experiences​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research)​​ (Oxford Academic)​.

Reduction in Agitation and Anxiety

Listening to or participating in music activities can reduce agitation and anxiety in people with dementia. Studies have shown that personalized music playlists can decrease disruptive behaviors such as aggression and agitation, creating a more peaceful environment for both patients and caregivers (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research) (Oxford Academic).

Improvement in Mood and Emotional Well-Being

Music has a profound impact on mood and emotional well-being. It can reduce symptoms of depression and provide comfort, joy, and relaxation. The emotional connection through music can enhance overall happiness and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research)​​ (Music in Mind)​.

Enhanced Communication

Music provides a means of communication for individuals who may have lost their verbal abilities. It allows them to express themselves through singing, humming, or even tapping to the rhythm. This non-verbal form of communication can be very meaningful for both the person with dementia and their loved ones​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research)​​ (Music in Mind)​.

Cognitive Stimulation

Engaging with music requires cognitive function, which can help stimulate the brain and maintain mental acuity. Activities such as singing, playing instruments, or even actively listening to music can help engage cognitive processes and promote mental stimulation​ (Oxford Academic)​.

Social Interaction and Connection

Group music activities, like singing in a choir or attending music therapy sessions, provide opportunities for social interaction. These interactions can foster a sense of community and belonging, which is crucial for emotional health​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research)​​ (Music in Mind)​.

Support for Caregivers

Music therapy can also ease the caregiving process by reducing the burden of care. When individuals with dementia are engaged and calm, caregivers experience less stress and can interact more positively with their loved ones​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research)​​ (Music in Mind)​.

Physical Benefits

Engaging with music can also have physical benefits. Activities like dancing or even moving to the rhythm can help maintain physical mobility and coordination, promoting overall physical health​ (Fisher Alzheimer’s Research) (Oxford Academic).

Incorporating music into the daily care routine of people with dementia can provide these significant benefits, making it a valuable tool for enhancing their quality of life and well-being

How has music helped you connect with your loved one with dementia? Have you seen music positively impact the life of a loved one? Share your stories with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!