Effects of Using Music Therapy for Patients Suffering from Dementia

H. Trainor

Journal

Health Care Manager

Year

2019

Volume

38

Issue

3

First Page

206

Last Page

210

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to discuss the mental and physical effects of using music therapy with patients suffering with dementia. Like any type of therapy, there are guidelines for measuring the effects. Music therapy can be used as a substitute for pharmaceuticals with dementia patients. The earlier the diagnosis and the earlier treatment commences for dementia patients, the more likely the treatment will work. Music therapy can reach the part of the brain where we hold memories, which is why it is used as a treatment option for dementia patients. Alzheimer disease and dementia are among the most expensive diseases to treat. However, if the onset of dementia can be delayed, money can be saved. Medicare does not require that music therapy be offered in assisted living, nursing homes, or hospices. Areas of cost savings were identified as use of medication, length of nursing visits, and number and length of home health-aid visits, which can all be measured in total cost savings. For health care managers, it is imperative that new therapies such as music therapy be applied in health care facilities that treat dementia patients.

Music and Health Institute Terms

Alzheimer's and Related Dementias; Cognitive Abilities; Elderly; Long-Term Care Facility; Memory; Music Therapy; Neurodegenerative Disorders

Indexed Terms

Elderly; Cost-Benefit Analysis; Dementia; Medicare; Nursing Homes; United States

Study Type

Editorial, Opinions, Position Papers

Disciplines

Music Therapy

PubMed ID

31261197

Document Type

Article

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