Cochrane Review: Music-Based Interventions for Dementia Show Modest Benefits

A recent Cochrane review evaluated the effects of music-based therapeutic interventions on individuals with dementia. Analysing data from 30 studies involving 1,720 participants, the review found that, compared to usual care, music-based interventions probably lead to slight improvements in depressive symptoms and may reduce overall behavioural problems. However, evidence regarding benefits for agitation, emotional well-being, cognition, and long-term effects remains limited or uncertain.

These findings suggest that while music therapy can offer some benefits for people with dementia, further high-quality research is needed to fully understand its impact.

Read the full review: Cochrane Library – Music-Based Therapeutic Interventions for People with Dementia

Allied Health Professionals

Research project opportunity

We have joined up with UHMB Library and Knowledge Services within the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust to deliver a program on evidence based practice.

The project aims to:

  • Map the distribution of AHPs across the ICP, breaking it down by professional role, who they work for and who they serve including any cross-organisational working
  • Increase the awareness of Library services and provide support to aid with the treatment of patients
  • Facilitate links across the Trust and within local authorities to create long lasting contacts and to share knowledge and good practice
  • Offer an educational programme of evidence-based practice based on the concept of critically appraised topics supported by a series of lectures and workshops delivered by Lancaster University
  • Stimulate engagement with research and service development in the ICP and provide the groundwork for research collaboration
  • Equip staff with the knowledge, confidence and support to undertake their own research projects

The project is open to all Allied Health Professionals across the Trust. If you are interested please email your details (name, job role, contact information, place of work) to katie.roper@lscft.nhs.uk

BBC Music website offers dementia lifeline

BBC News, September 2018
A new BBC website aims to help by connecting dementia patients with the songs they love.   The site – which was launched as part of BBC Music Day – allows people to browse more than 1,800 songs, classical works and TV theme tunes from the last 100 years, creating a playlist of personally meaningful music…
Click here to view the full item.
Click here to access the Music Memories website.