Musical Dual-task Training in Patients With Mild-to-moderate Dementia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Journal
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
Year
2018
Abstract
Background/aims: Dual-task training may improve dual-task gait performance, balance, and cognition in older adults with and without cognitive impairment. Although music has been widely utilized in dementia management, there are no existing protocols for music-based dual-task training. This randomized controlled study developed a Musical Dual-Task Training (MDTT) protocol that patients with dementia can use to practice walking and making music simultaneously, to enhance attention control in patients during dual-tasking. Methods: Twenty-eight adults diagnosed with mild-to-moderate dementia were assigned to the MDTT (n = 15) or control groups (n = 13). The MDTT group received MDTT, while the control group participated in non-musical cognitive and walking activities. The effects of MDTT were evaluated through the primary outcome of attention control, and secondary outcomes of dual-task performance, balance, falls efficacy, and agitation. Results: The MDTT group showed a significant improvement in attention control, while the control group did not (P < 0.001). A significant effect favored MDTT over control treatment for the secondary outcome of falls efficacy (P = 0.02) and agitation (P < 0.01). Conclusion: MDTT, a music therapy intervention that demands a high level of cognitive processing, enhances attention control, falls efficacy, and helps alleviate agitation in patients with mild-to-moderate dementia. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)
Music and Health Institute Terms
Agitation; Alzheimer's and Related Dementias; Elderly; Music in Combination with Other Techniques; Music Therapy; Neurodegenerative Disorders; Physical Exercise
Indexed Terms
musical dual-task; training; dementia; cognition; Dual Task Performance
Study Type
Randomized Controlled; Trial; Quantitative Methods
Document Type
Article
Recommended Citation
Chen, Y., & Pei, Y. (2018). Musical Dual-task Training in Patients With Mild-to-moderate Dementia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment Retrieved from https://remix.berklee.edu/mhi-citations/108