Alzheimer's Music Therapy

Introduction

Management of Alzheimer’s disease involves both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Among all alternative (non-pharmacological) therapies, music has been found to have the greatest effect with minimum harm (Zare, Ebrahimi, & Birashk 2010). Music therapy is defined as “the specialised use of music to change maladaptive physical, emotional and social behaviour to attain maximum levels of functioning (Goodball & Etters 2005). It is an alternative method to communicate with Alzheimer’s patients Music therapy has a positive impact on memory (Foster & Valentine 2001; Sambandham & Schirm (1995). It has been noted that people with Alzheimer’s disease improve in their social interactions in presence of music. According to

Beatty, Zavadil, and Bailly (1988) give the case of a woman with aphasia, impaired memory and apraxia but could read a song and play xylophone. Foster (1998) describes improvements in memory of dementia patients when subjected to music. He attributed this improving to music, which increases cognitive power of the patient and the patient depends on triggers in the environment. Music therapy improves life for patients of Alzheimer when combined with the fulfilment of feeling accepted and belonging, which comes with communicating with people. Prinsley (1986) suggests music therapy for care of geriatrics because it is capable of reducing dependence on tranquilizers, hypnotics and improves rehabilitation. Caregivers and families of Alzheimer’s patients should embrace music therapy for its benefits. Vasionyte (2011) notes that music therapy is frequently used in dementia aiming at improving daily life of people with severe impairment of cognitive abilities. Interest in music therapy for dementia, and thus Alzheimer’s disease, began to develop in late twentieth century (Vasionyte 2011). Koger et al (1999) indicates that Brotons together with her colleagues had in 1997 summarised 69 studies dating back to 1985. The studies comprised clinical empirical studies on music interventions, theoretical and philosophical papers, case studies and anecdotal

Even in the most deteriorated cases, Alzheimer’s patients continue to respond and dance to familiar songs. They especially respond to songs that they used to enjoy. This shows those music memories remain for long. Svansdottri and Snaedal (2006) explain that studies have shown that use of music for dementia is successful, has many positive results without adverse effects. Cognitive function is among the improvements that occur. Dileo and Bradt (2005) found that negative symptoms including aggression, delusions and agitation are reduced to a significant extent. Physiological impacts of music include a rise in levels of melatonin that is very vital for relaxation (Kumar, Tims, Xruess & Mintester 1999). In addition, music reduces salivary chromatogranin A that is involved in stress. Music helps patients of Alzheimers disease to have better group interactions (Clair & Bernstein 1990). Music experience in the day-to-day life of an Alzheimer’s patient improves their well-being, socialization, and helps them participate in various daily activities (Sixsmith & Gibson 2007). Furthermore, music has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression in old patients. Some studies show no effect of music therapy on patients with dementia. One such study compared