Exploring the use of musical activities implemented in home-based dementia care as part of the HOMESIDE study

Journal

Arts & Health

Year

2025

Abstract

Dementia prevalence is rapidly increasing globally, and home-based care provision is becoming more common. Research shows the benefits of using music interventions to manage symptoms of dementia, but more information is needed on what musical activities can be used and how these are beneficial. This paper explores how person-centred musical activities were used in HOMESIDE (Baker et al. 2019, 2023), an internationalRCT exploring music and reading in dementia care. Demographic, case summary, and diary data were analysed from 10 participant pairs, across 5 countries. Listening to music was the most used activity. Dyads changed their approach over time and incorporated varied forms of music into daily life. Benefits were described in physical, behavioural, psychological, cognitive, and relational areas. This research highlights the benefits of music training for informal caregivers. A “Triangle of care” approach to provide care and support for the caregiver and care recipient is recommended.

Music and Health Institute Terms

Neurodegenerative Disorders; Alzheimer's and Related Dementias; Home Setting; Music-based Interventions; Music Listening; Psychological Outcomes; Behavioral State; Cognitive Abilities; Subjective Measures; Observational Measures

Indexed Terms

Dementia; home care; home-based intervention

Study Type

Case Study; Qualitative Methods

PubMed ID

Publisher: Taylor & Francis _eprint: https://doi.org/10.1080/17533015.2025.2525334 PMID: 40600476

Document Type

Article

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