The effects of music therapy on behaviours with people with dementia

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of group music therapy as a therapeutic intervention to reduce dementia-related behaviours in residents residing in a secure dementia specific unit.Methods: This prospective pre and post study was conducted in three dementia specific long term care units. Music therapy was provided to 40 residents with dementia by two trained music therapists twice per week for a period of 12 weeks. The short form of the Cohen Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) was used to assess impact of the music therapy on reduction of dementia related behaviours. The Short form of the CMAI consists of 14 items grouped into three factors: - Aggressive behaviour, Physically Non-aggressive behaviour and Verbally Agitated Behaviour.Results: There was a statistically significant reduction on all three factors of the CMAI from baseline to 12 weeks.Conclusions: Twice weekly group music therapy delivered by trained music therapists can reduce behavioural symptoms for people with dementia ain long term care.