Music Therapy to Reduce Agitation in Dementia
Journal
Nursing Times
Year
2014
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Music therapy is a non-pharmacological intervention that aims to increase emotional wellbeing through cognitive stimulation and social interaction. AIM AND METHOD: I aimed to investigate the efficacy of group music therapy to reduce agitation in people with dementia. To this end, I carried out a systematic review of the literature. RESULTS: Eight articles show that music therapy is feasible for use with people with all stages of dementia. The best results involved using familiar music and a qualified group music therapist, with the optimum frequency of intervention being two to three times a week for 30-50 minutes. Control interventions such as reading and recreational activities also reduced agitation. CONCLUSION: Music therapy should be implemented by qualified music therapists in care homes and day care units. Further research should be conducted to ascertain the most suitable music types to be used in therapy sessions.
Music and Health Institute Terms
Anxiety; Mental Health; Music Listening; Music Medicine; Music Therapy; Neurodegenerative Disorders; Receptive Music Methods; Recorded Music Listening; Wellness and Well-Being
Indexed Terms
Dementia; Psychomotor Agitation; Psychotherapy, Group; United Kingdom
Study Type
Quantitative Methods; Systematic Review
PubMed ID
25188964
Document Type
Article
Recommended Citation
Craig, J. (2014). Music Therapy to Reduce Agitation in Dementia. Nursing Times, 110 (32-33), 12-5. Retrieved from https://remix.berklee.edu/mhi-citations/895