• To recognise the therapeutic properties of music
• To understand the benefits of music for people with dementia
• To familiarise yourself with music interventions that can be used in the care of people with dementia
The therapeutic properties of music have been recognised since antiquity. In recent years, there has been a growing evidence base to support claims about the benefits of music for individuals with various health conditions, including dementia. It has been reported that music interventions can lead to improvements in cognition, behaviour and psychosocial well-being in people with dementia, as well as improving the experience of carers. Therefore, it is suggested that nurses should consider harnessing music’s potential by incorporating it into the care they provide. This article explores the evidence base for the use of music in dementia care and outlines its potential benefits. It also details the range of music interventions, modes of delivery, and considerations for practice and research.
Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2020.e11560
Peer reviewThis article has been subject to external double-blind peer review and checked for plagiarism using automated software
Correspondence Conflict of interestNone declared
Skingley A, McCue J, Vella-Burrows T (2020) Using music interventions in the care of people with dementia. Nursing Standard. doi: 10.7748/ns.2020.e11560
Published online: 19 May 2020
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