Q&A: Benefits of Music Therapy for Alzheimer’s and Dementia

As American Baby Boomers age, dementias and other chronic and debilitating diseases are predicted to rise, according to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO). “The prevalence of Alzheimer’s dementia in the U.S. population is expected to triple by 2050 and has been called the ‘great health crisis of the 21st century’,” to be addressed in an upcoming NHPCO webinar on palliative care for Alzheimer’s patients and their families.

The Alzheimer’s Association reports that, “Alzheimer’s disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. It is the only cause of death among the top 10 in America that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed.” However, the symptoms of Alzheimer’s in any stage can be treated to improve quality of life for patients and families.

Benefits of Music Therapy

It may seem like those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia are trapped, lost and unreachable in their own worlds. Through the use of music therapy, a type of innovative care, it’s possible to connect with dementia patients and families.

American Music Therapy Association explains, “Music therapy interventions can be designed to promote wellness, manage stress, alleviate pain, enhance memory, improve communication and provide unique opportunities for interaction.”

Julie Martin is one of two music therapists of Suncoast Hospice. She holds a Bachelor of Music and is board certified in music therapy. Julie treats many dementia patients who are living in nursing homes or assisted living facilities (ALFs). Here’s a look into her rewarding work:

Q&A with Julie Martin, MT-BC, NMT-F, NICU-MT

1. How long have you practiced music therapy?

I’m in my 19^th year. I’ve been with Suncoast Hospice since 2010.

2. Have you primarily worked with older dementia patients or any younger ones?

The majority of my patients with dementia have been elderly. I had two younger patients with dementia – one had early-onset dementia and the other had a more rare form of dementia called Pick’s Disease.

3. What interventions do you use?

I play the QChord, guitar and flute, do singing and stream music on an iPad.

4. What are the benefits of music therapy for dementia patients and families?

Music therapy increases orientation to self, others and the environment. By becoming more aware of self, a patient may better be able to identify pain, discomfort or worry. Music activates the communication and speech areas, allowing patients to then tell where pain is occurring. Activation of awareness and language centers helps caregivers communicate with and be understood by patients.

For families, seeing the light of recognition in their loved ones’ eyes is so precious. Music therapy facilitates interactions between family members and patients. Families also feel a sense of wellbeing, comfort or relaxation during music therapy sessions, particularly at their loved ones’ end of life.

5. What are your goals in care?

My goals are the patients’ and families’ goals. I tailor musical experiences to facilitate their ability to reach their goals. An important part of my work is assessing how a patient’s “musical performance” and response to music changes. These changes can indicate decline of cognitive function.

6. Who was the most memorable dementia patient you’ve worked with?

I had one lady with end-stage Alzheimer’s at an ALF and, as often is the case, she could still respond to music. As her disease progressed, it took more repetitions of our greeting song before she would make real eye contact or smile. During one unforgettable session after I played our greeting song several times, she opened her eyes, looked at me and said, “Oh, hello.” Her smile and her nature were so sweet and mostly hidden behind dementia.

7. What is your advice for caregivers and family members of dementia patients?

Use familiar songs when playing recordings of music. If the songs were specific to a singer or band use those recordings, especially in late-stage dementia. If you know your loved one has no aversion to You are My Sunshine or Happy Birthday, sing one of those songs every time you arrive for a visit. Use music before attempting to have conversations so your loved one is more aware and oriented.

8. How has your work impacted your life?

It has given me exquisite moments that have enriched my life. It has reinforced to me that music is biological and essential to human wellbeing.

9. How do you foresee the future of music therapy?

As more people become aware of music therapy, they’re going to ask for it. Music therapy in hospice settings is really taking off. We’re dedicated to the development in the field and expanding our knowledge base so we have good practice. There’s now an additional hospice and palliative music therapy training that I plan to pursue.