Exploring the Impact of Music Concerts in Promoting Well-being in Dementia Care
Journal
Aging & Mental Health
Year
2017
Abstract
Objectives: This study explores the specific effects of live music concerts on the clients with dementia, their families and nursing staff/caregivers. Methods: Researchers attended 22 concerts in care facilities in England and Japan. Interviews were carried out with clients with dementia, nursing staff and family members. Observations were also carried out before, during and after the concerts. All observations were recorded in field notes. Results: The effect of the concerts in both countries was seen to be beneficial to all clients and nursing staff, whether or not they attended the concert. Interviews with clients with mild to mid-stage dementia noted increased levels of cooperation, interaction and conversation. Those with more advanced forms of dementia exhibited decreased levels of agitation and anti-social behaviour. Staff members reported increased levels of care, cooperation and opportunities for assessment. Family members noted an increase in the levels of well-being in their partner/parent as well as in themselves.The study also suggested that the knowledge of musical components, an awareness of the rules of music and specific musical preferences appear to remain well beyond the time when other cognitive skills and abilities have disappeared. Conclusions: This initial study provided some further indication in terms of the uses of music as a non-pharmacological intervention for those living with all stages of dementia. These included opportunities for assessment of physical abilities as well as facilitating an increasing level of care. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)
Music and Health Institute Terms
Agitation; Alzheimer's and Related Dementias; Elderly; Engagement Level; Interviews; Neurodegenerative Disorders; Recreative Music Methods; Wellness and Well-Being
Indexed Terms
Dementia; care giving; families; nursing staff; Family Members; Treatment Facilities; Well Being
Study Type
Ethnographic Study; Qualitative Methods
Document Type
Article
Recommended Citation
Shibazaki, K., & Marshall, N. A. (2017). Exploring the Impact of Music Concerts in Promoting Well-being in Dementia Care. Aging & Mental Health (5), 264-268. Retrieved from https://remix.berklee.edu/mhi-citations/1197