A recent review has revealed that music-based therapy may offer significant benefits for individuals living with dementia, particularly in alleviating symptoms of depression. The findings, published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, highlight the potential of music therapy as a simple, accessible, and cost-effective treatment option.
Dementia, a group of progressive brain disorders that impair memory, thinking, behavior, and emotions, currently affects around 55 million people worldwide, with the number expected to rise to 139 million by 2050, according to Alzheimer’s Disease International. While medication options exist, music-based therapies stand out as an alternative that remains viable, even in the later stages of the disease.
The study, conducted by a research team from several Dutch institutions, analyzed data from 30 trials involving 1,720 participants. These studies examined the impact of music-based interventions on various aspects of emotional well-being, such as quality of life, mood, behavioral problems, social interactions, and cognitive function. The majority of participants were in care homes, where the music sessions were delivered either individually or in groups.
The research was primarily conducted in high-income countries, including Australia, Taiwan, the United States, and several European nations. Most of the therapies involved active elements, such as playing instruments, often combined with receptive activities like listening to live music performed by a therapist.
Lead author Jenny van der Steen, from Leiden University Medical Center and Radboudumc Alzheimer Center, emphasized the significance of the findings. “This review enhances our understanding of the benefits of music therapy and strengthens the argument for its integration into dementia care, particularly in care home environments,” she said. “Music therapy not only offers a positive impact on mood and behavior but also remains engaging and accessible, even during the later stages of dementia.”
The review suggests that music therapy likely improves depressive symptoms and may reduce overall behavioral problems by the end of treatment. However, it appears to have limited effects on agitation, aggression, emotional well-being, and cognition. Compared to other interventions, music therapy may improve social behavior and could help reduce anxiety.
While the long-term effects of music therapy remain uncertain—due to a lack of trials tracking outcomes beyond four weeks—researchers are calling for more studies to explore its lasting impact.
Co-author Annemieke Vink, from ArtEZ University of the Arts, who has firsthand experience delivering music therapy to dementia patients, stated, “Music therapy offers a drug-free approach to helping individuals feel less anxious and depressed. We hope that the growing body of evidence will lead to greater recognition of music therapy and other non-pharmacological treatments.”
Vink further emphasized that, based on the study’s findings, music therapy is a reasonable and person-centered alternative to traditional pharmacological approaches.
The review also underscores the increasing importance of non-drug therapies in dementia care. It calls for further research into the long-term benefits of music therapy, especially in community-based settings, where its integration into daily life could offer new insights into supporting people with dementia.
Related topic:
Yale Study Explores How Childhood Adversity Affects Mental Health
Alcohol Use and Anxiety Sensitivity: A Dangerous Cycle
Poor Sleep Linked to Mobility Decline in Women with Chronic Illnesses
