Using Music Interventions in the Care of People With Dementia

Journal

Nursing Standard

Year

2020

Abstract

The therapeutic properties of music have been recognised since antiquity. In recent years, there has been a growing evidence base to support claims about the benefits of music for individuals with various health conditions, including dementia. It has been reported that music interventions can lead to improvements in cognition, behaviour and psychosocial well-being in people with dementia, as well as improving the experience of carers. Therefore, it is suggested that nurses should consider harnessing music's potential by incorporating it into the care they provide. This article explores the evidence base for the use of music in dementia care and outlines its potential benefits. It also details the range of music interventions, modes of delivery, and considerations for practice and research.

Music and Health Institute Terms

Alzheimer's and Related Dementias; Behavioral State; Caregivers; Cognitive Abilities; Music and Healing; Neurodegenerative Disorders; Psychological Outcomes; Wellness and Well-Being

Indexed Terms

Caregivers; Cognition; Dementia; Alzheimer’s disease; clinical; complementary therapies; dementia; dementia with Lewy bodies; frontotemporal dementia; medicines; neurology; vascular dementia

Study Type

Editorial, Opinions, Position Papers

PubMed ID

32425011

Document Type

Article

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