Date of Award

Spring 2021

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Dr. Kevin Basile

Second Advisor

Jodi Freeman

Abstract

Abstract:

Introduction: Affecting both memory and cognitive abilities, Alzheimer’s disease is a growing problem as the baby boomer population ages. Clinical trials for new medications fail or are slow going, researchers have sought alternatives to alleviate symptoms for patients of this disease. This paper will address the effect of music therapy on mood disturbance in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Method: A literature search was completed in November of 2019 using PubMed, EBSCO Search, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Six articles were chosen based on relevance to the research question, study design, outcome, and results.

Results: Based on review, music therapy with interaction indicates a positive impact on mood disturbances in those suffering from Alzheimer’s. Evidence varies greatly among studies due to different methods of testing and types of interventions used; however overall results show music therapy has a positive impact on anxiety and depression.

Discussion: Though testing and therapy modalities varied across studies, the majority of studies found music has a positive effect on patients with AD. Many of these studies have limited population sizes further limited by drop out due to the nature of the disease. Inconsistency between types of music therapy performed in individual studies makes putting a treatment plan in place based on these results difficult. Further study on specific treatment plans should continue.

Conclusion: Medications for Alzheimer’s disease are not effective in alleviating symptoms alone. Music therapy allows for patients to connect with each other, staff, and their families while also decreasing depression, anxiety, and agitation. Nursing homes can easily implement music therapy to the benefit of their patients.

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Bauer Lauren Capstone.mp4 (19948 kB)

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In patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s, does music therapy help to decrease mood disturbances when compared to those not participating in music therapy?

Abstract:

Introduction: Affecting both memory and cognitive abilities, Alzheimer’s disease is a growing problem as the baby boomer population ages. Clinical trials for new medications fail or are slow going, researchers have sought alternatives to alleviate symptoms for patients of this disease. This paper will address the effect of music therapy on mood disturbance in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Method: A literature search was completed in November of 2019 using PubMed, EBSCO Search, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Six articles were chosen based on relevance to the research question, study design, outcome, and results.

Results: Based on review, music therapy with interaction indicates a positive impact on mood disturbances in those suffering from Alzheimer’s. Evidence varies greatly among studies due to different methods of testing and types of interventions used; however overall results show music therapy has a positive impact on anxiety and depression.

Discussion: Though testing and therapy modalities varied across studies, the majority of studies found music has a positive effect on patients with AD. Many of these studies have limited population sizes further limited by drop out due to the nature of the disease. Inconsistency between types of music therapy performed in individual studies makes putting a treatment plan in place based on these results difficult. Further study on specific treatment plans should continue.

Conclusion: Medications for Alzheimer’s disease are not effective in alleviating symptoms alone. Music therapy allows for patients to connect with each other, staff, and their families while also decreasing depression, anxiety, and agitation. Nursing homes can easily implement music therapy to the benefit of their patients.