A preliminary study of music therapy programming for severely regressed persons with Alzheimer's-type dementia

Author(s): Bernstein, Barry

Journal/Book: Journal of Applied Gerontology. 1990; 9: 299-311.

Abstract: Three men (aged 56-72 yrs) with Alzheimer's-type dementia participated in music therapy sessions for 15 mo. All Ss were low functioning and required supervision for behavioral management. Data were gathered in the last 11 wks of the music therapy program for communicating, watching others, singing, interacting with an instrument, and sitting. Although Ss deteriorated markedly in cognitive, physical, and social capacities over the 15 mo, Ss continued to participate in music activities in a structured group context. Ss consistently sat in chairs without physical restraints for the duration of each 30-min session. Ss functioned with others in a group context regardless of their deterioration. This was the only time in the Ss' week when they interacted with others.

Note: music therapy; 56 72 yr olds with Alzheimer's type dementia

Keyword(s): Music therapy; alzheimers disease; aged ; adulthood

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