Individualized Music Interventions for Dementia-Related Behavior Management.

Abstract

Dementia presents many challenges for the person diagnosed, as well as for caregivers. The use of psychotropic medications for dementia-related behaviors has been linked to adverse reactions and increased mortality. Alternative approaches such as the use of personalized music playlists and musically-related spiritual care have had promising results including improved quality of life for persons with dementia and reduced stress for caregivers. Implementing an individualized music program is relatively simple and avoids deleterious side effects that may accompany medication use.