The influence of group singing therapy on the behavior of Alzheimer's disease patients

Author(s): Smith, Jeffrey M.

Journal/Book: Journal of Music Therapy. 1989; 26: 58-70.

Abstract: 10 patients (aged 71-98 yrs) with Alzheimer's disease participated in control and experimental sessions twice weekly for 5 wks: The baseline condition consisted of discussion sessions, while the treatment condition consisted of therapeutic singing. Two observers took data on Ss using a behavioral checklist, and data were analyzed using an analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results show (1) a significant difference between baseline and treatment sessions for 2 behaviors (sitting and walking with others), (2) significantly higher vocal/verbal participation in treatment sessions, and (3) a significant change in 1 behavior (walking with others) exhibited after treatment sessions.

Note: group singing therapy; social behavior; 71 98 yr olds with Alzheimer's disease

Keyword(s): Alzheimers disease; music therapy; group participation; social behavior; aged ; very old; adulthood

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