Impact of individualised music listening intervention on persons with dementia: A systematic review of randomised controlled trials

Abstract

Objective To summarise the evidence regarding the impact of individualised music listening on persons with dementia. Methods Six electronic databases (CINAHL, Medline, ProQuest, PsycINFO, Music Periodicals and Cochrane) were searched up to July 2018 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy of individualised music listening compared to other music and non–music‐based interventions. Results Four studies were included. Results showed evidence of a positive impact of individualised music listening on behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSDs) including agitation, anxiety and depression and physiological outcomes. Evidence for other outcomes such as cognitive function and quality of life was limited. Conclusions The limited evidence suggests individualised music listening has comparable efficacy to more resource‐intensive interventions. However, there was a small number of RCTs and some outcomes were evaluated by a single study. This limits the conclusions drawn, warranting more RCTs evaluating other outcomes beyond the BPSDs.

The Nexus of ‘Music, Mind, and Well-being’: Effects of Harmony in the Bush Music Intervention for Residents with Advanced Dementia in Australian Rural Nursing Homes

“…Interviews with the clinicians and care workers con rm that the behaviours of the residents, such as resistance to care, screaming, hitting, and wandering, were less immediately after the person-centred music intervention and continued up to two hours. While other studies found the music as effective in reducing aggression and agitation (Chu et al, 2014;Gaviola et al, 2020), our study extends the evidence that the music intervention not only positively affects the neuropsychiatric behaviours but may also have a long-term impact on their emotional and cultural care.…”

“…Previous studies identi ed that the number of incidents relating to aggression, agitation, and depression varied according to the types and severity of dementia (Chu et al, 2014;Gaviola et al, 2020). Gerdner (2012) notes the inappropriate behaviours of residents with advanced dementia occurs often and without any explanation.…”

“…The literature indicates that evidence-based music activity has potential, as a supplement to cognitive behavioural therapy and/or medication, to be an effective and safe compassionate intervention in behavioural change, meaningful interaction and contentment (Gold et al, 2019;Ho et al, 2019). Several rigorous systematic reviews and intervention studies demonstrated the statistically signi cant effects of music interventions on reducing depression and anxiety, and a discontinuation of psychotic medication (Ballard et al, 2017;Gaviola et al, 2020). Ueda et al (2013) and Ho et al (2019) report that involving the residents with dementia in music activities, e.g.…”

“Music Makes My Old Heart Beat”: A Randomised Controlled Study on the Benefits of the Use of Music in Comprehensive Care for Institutionalised Older Adults

“…Music interventions have also been applied in older people with severe dementia, depression, brain injury, chronic illnesses, or severe impairments (e.g. Gaviola et al, 2019).…”

Soundscape in nursing homes as a treatment strategy for challenging behavior in dementia?

“…Using special techniques for transmitting pleasant sounds in a narrow acoustic space to create individualized soundscapes in common areas can have positive effects on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. A review on individualized music listening (based on the residents' preferences) revealed effects on agitation, anxiety, and physiological outcomes (Gaviola et al, 2020), and another review on preferred music showed positive effects on agitated behavior in people with dementia (Sung and Chang, 2005).…”