THE EFFECT OF MUSIC THERAPY ON THE EMOTIONAL WELL BEING AND AGITATION LEVELS IN PERSONS WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

Abstract

This is a qualitative data synthesis of four randomized controlled trials which were published in the last five years. They were used to analyze the effect of music therapy on the emotional well being and agitation levels in persons with Alzheimer's disease. Based on the results of four randomized controlled trials, music therapy shows significant benefits for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. These benefits include reduced agitation, improved mood regulation, and enhanced cognitive function. Specifically, active forms of music therapy produce greater improvements in cognition and agitation levels compared to receptive listening methods. Music and audiobooks reduced agitation in three of four subgroups, but physical aggression only improved during music (worsening afterward, and generally with audiobooks). The studies also showed that the effect of music therapy on agitation is related to its severity. Consequently, positive effects were recorded higher in patients with low to moderate agitation levels, whereas no significant effects were noted in patients with severe agitation. Intervention residents were observed happier than usual-care residents.