Music is similar to the sense of smell as it has the ability to unlock memories long forgotten. This same phenomenon of music holds true for people with Lewy Body Dementia, Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, especially as the disease progresses. A BMC Geriatrics study found that music therapy is a practical and acceptable tool for home care providers, and has been shown to reduce symptoms associated with dementia while also increasing a person’s overall wellbeing. The study also reported increased levels of wellbeing in dementia caregivers, showing that this is a great therapy choice for people with LBD, their families and caregivers.
What is music therapy?
Music therapy, as defined by the World Federation of Music Therapy, is an interactive live music-making interaction accompanied by verbal or non-verbal communication between a trained therapist and client. The NICE Dementia Pathway says that “the key goal of music therapy is to provide cognitive stimulation and to manage non-cognitive symptoms, such as depression, anxiety and agitation.”
When used appropriately, music has the potential to:
- Boost mood levels
- Help manage agitation due to stress
- Increase the likelihood of positive interactions
- Improve cognitive function
- Improve gross and fine motor coordination
- Increase communication/engagement
How does music therapy work?
Music therapy is usually conducted by a licensed music therapist, a professional who has at least two years of training in the field. Music therapists work with caregivers and family members to find the best music for their client and to meet the goals mutually agreed upon. Different types of music may be used, for example, to improve motor function, or to soothe or improve cognitive function and memory.
Music therapy comes in many different shapes and forms. It often involves playing an instrument or singing. If the person with LBD is capable, the music therapist may encourage them to actively participate in creating music. Drums are one great tool used in music therapy because they improve motor function and strengthen the hands, which can help with everyday activities such as dressing and feeding. Medicare and Medicaid may also cover music therapy under the 1992 Music Therapy for Older Americans Act.
Finding music therapy in your area
Our organization has numerous resources to connect you with a qualified music therapist or music therapy organization in your area. Healing through the Arts and MedRhythms are two options located in the New York metropolitan area.
Contact information and other details can be found at the Therapeutic & Artistic Practitioners – Music section of our website.
