The use of music to decrease agitated behavior of the demented elderly: The state of the science
Resource
Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences v.15 n.1 pp.165-173
Journal
Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences
Journal Volume
v.15
Journal Issue
n.1
Pages
165-173
Date Issued
2001
Date
2001
Author(s)
LOU, MEEI-FANG
Abstract
This paper reviews the state of the science of interventions using music to decrease the agitated behavior of the demented elderly person. Seven research articles were located through computerized databases. The review of the literature suggested that music therapy is a useful intervention to help patients deal with a range of behavior problems. However, overall weakness and limitations of studies are considerable. More rigorous research designs are required to evaluate the immediate and sustained physiological, psychological and sociological effects of music therapy on agitation behaviors of demented elderly. Some recommendations for future research are provided.