It’s the power of music.
A recent review has found that music therapy can be beneficial for people with dementia, particularly in reducing depressive symptoms and potentially improving behavioral issues. The analysis of multiple studies suggests that music-based interventions could offer a helpful tool in dementia care by enhancing mood and behavior. Jenny van der Steen, the lead researcher and associate professor at Leiden University Medical Center, emphasized the positive impact of music therapy in dementia care, particularly in care home environments.
Van der Steen noted that music therapy provides unique benefits compared to other group activities, helping to engage individuals and improve their mood even during the later stages of dementia. She urged care home managers to consider incorporating structured music sessions into their person-centered dementia care strategies, as music therapy is accessible and has shown promising results in supporting emotional well-being.
The review analyzed data from 30 studies involving over 1,700 participants, most of whom were in care homes receiving either individual or group music therapy sessions. The results indicated that at least five music therapy sessions could improve depressive symptoms and may also reduce behavioral problems. While music therapy did not significantly impact symptoms like agitation, aggression, or cognition, there was evidence that it could improve social behavior and reduce anxiety compared to other treatments.
Annemieke Vink, a co-author of the study and an expert in delivering music therapy to people with dementia, highlighted the non-drug-based approach of music therapy as a way to help individuals feel less anxious and depressed. She expressed hope that the growing evidence base would lead to more widespread use of music therapy in dementia care. Despite the positive findings, researchers acknowledged the need for further studies, particularly to understand the long-term effects of music therapy outside of care home settings.
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