Nithya Mathai, DNP
Dementia, is a syndrome characterized by a decline in cognitive neurological function beyond what might be expected from normal aging, poses significant challenges for affected individuals and their caregivers. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimers or for the symptoms that encompass dementia. However, we utilize different modalities to help with the symptoms and frustrations that dementia can bring on. Among these, music therapy has emerged as a promising approach, harnessing the power of melodies and rhythms to connect with individuals and unlock memories. In this blog post, let’s delve into the scientific evidence supporting music therapy for dementia patients, exploring its therapeutic benefits and implications.
What is Music Therapy?
Music therapy involves the deliberate use of music-based interventions by trained therapists to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. It encompasses a range of activities, including listening to music, singing, playing instruments, and improvisation, tailored to meet individual preferences and goals. The therapeutic effects of music are multifaceted, engaging various neural pathways and eliciting emotional responses that can transcend cognitive impairment.
Of course thanks to the ability to conduct research, we now have numerous evidence based data to help support claims that magic therapy may have a positive impact.
Positive impacts noted within these trials and data extrapolation include:
1. Cognitive Function: Research suggests that music can stimulate cognitive processes, such as memory, attention, and executive function, in individuals with dementia. A meta-analysis published in Frontiers for Neuroscience found that music-based interventions led to improvements in cognitive function and mood among dementia patients compared to standard care.
2. Emotional Well-being: Individuals who suffer from dementia including the caregivers go through a roller coaster of emotions. This disease not only causes frustration, it increases dependability on others to survive. As Caregiver burden and grief can occur for long term caregivers, using music as an outlet has been known to help. Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, eliciting a positive effect and reducing agitation, anxiety, and depression in dementia patients. A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reported that personalized music playlists significantly reduced behavioral symptoms and improved quality of life in nursing home residents with dementia.
3. Social Interaction: Music therapy facilitates social engagement and communication among dementia patients, fostering connections with caregivers and peers. This helps to also eliminate the sense of “loneliness”. Group music-making activities promote a sense of belonging and camaraderie, enhancing social support networks and reducing feelings of isolation. This also allows for caregivers to interact with others in a similar situation.
4. Motor Function: A systematic review published in Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders highlighted the benefits of rhythmic auditory stimulation for improving gait and balance in dementia patients. Engaging with music through movement and rhythmic activities can enhance motor coordination and mobility in individuals with dementia.
For Healthcare Professionals: How does music therapy have a part in a patient’s treatment plan?
Integrating music therapy into dementia care requires a person-centered approach that considers individual preferences, abilities, and therapeutic goals. Caregivers and healthcare professionals can collaborate with music therapists to design tailored interventions that resonate with patients’ musical tastes and cultural backgrounds. Incorporating music into daily routines, such as mealtime, bathing, and recreational activities, can enhance engagement, mood, reduce frustrations and foster a supportive environment.
Music therapy holds tremendous promise as an effective non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing the well-being of dementia patients and their caregivers. By harnessing the therapeutic power of music, we can tap into memories, emotions, and connections that transcend the barriers of cognitive decline, enriching the lives of individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
References:
1. Van der Steen, J. T., et al. (2018). Effects of Music-Based Interventions on Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms in Dementia: A Meta-Analysis. Journal: Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, p.10, 311.
2. Garrido, S., et al. (2017). A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of a Personalized Music Program on Depressive Symptoms and Quality of Life in Residential Aged Care Facility Residents with Dementia. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 60(1), 323-335.
3. Rodríguez-Fornells, A., et al. (2012). The Role of Audio-Motor Coupling in the Music-Induced Modulation of Gait. Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, 33(3), 232-239.