ACCEPTABILITY OF A TAILORED MUSIC LISTENING INTERVENTION FOR SLEEP IN OLDER ADULTS WITH DEMENTIA

Abstract

Abstract There is a lack of non-pharmacological interventions aimed at improving sleep disturbances among persons living with dementia (PLWD). In this randomized clinical trial, we examined the acceptability of a tailored music listening intervention on sleep disturbances in PLWD. We recruited 33 PLWD age >60 and their care partners (‘dyad’); 30 dyads completed the study. Dyads were randomly assigned to a wait-list control or intervention group, which included listening to tailored sleep-inducing music 30 minutes every night for 4 weeks. Acceptability outcomes included a questionnaire of perceived benefits and satisfaction with study participation; and a single item examining the PLWD’s level of enjoyment while listening to music. In addition, we conducted semi-structured exit interviews. We used descriptive statistics and conventional content analysis to examine the qualitative data. Most PLWD and care partners identified themselves as female, Black and non-Hispanic. One third responded that the study benefited care partners (n=11, 36.7%) and helped improve PLWD quality of life (n=11, 37.9%). The majority (n=28, 93.3%) felt that this study was clearly explained to them, while a third felt that the study required too much work (n=10, 33.3%). Most dyads enjoyed listening to music that was selected for them (n=38, 93.3%) and reported that the intervention and music selection was acceptable. We identified four themes regarding the music selections: music was relaxing, enjoyable, promoted sleep, and brought back memories. Overall, this intervention shows promise for decreasing sleep disturbances among PLWD. Future studies involving music interventions for sleep should examine the mechanism of action.