[P4–318]: DEMENTIA AND MUSIC THERAPY

This study explores the effects of music therapy in dementia patients with agitation. Dementia affects approximately 30–50% of the American population over age 85 and often results in agitated behaviors (Alzheimer's Association, 2016). In order to reduce agitation, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions are implemented. Music therapy is a non-pharmacological intervention often implemented. According to Gil & Englert (2013), various non-pharmacological approaches have been shown to be effective as first line treatments in dementia patients with agitation. An integrative review was conducted thoroughly with database resources, such as CINAHL and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria included data within the last 7 years, studies written in English, and studies performed in long-term care facilities. Keywords included “dementia”, “agitation”, and “music therapy”. Two stages of dementia were determined to be present within the various studies, early to moderate and moderate to severe. Within the early to moderate studies, music was shown to induce a sense of relaxation and had positive short term effects. Within the moderate to severe studies, improvement in agitated outbursts and an increase in relaxation was found. In addition, music was shown to improve quality of life. Long term effects appear to be inconclusive. This study shows music therapy is an effective approach to agitation in dementia patients by inducing relaxation and improving quality of life. Wellbeing is improved within these patients. Results appear inconclusive for long term results; however, short term has proven to be effective. It is important for health care providers and caregivers to understand these results and implement non-pharmacological interventions for patients.