Group-Based Telehealth Music Therapy Intervention for Patients With Dementia: A Pilot Study

Twelve participants and their care partners will be randomized for the intervention. The music therapy intervention takes place once a week for 6 weeks via telemedicine, with the first session reserved for music therapy intake/assessment. There are 5 additional visits, once per week. The format of the sessions may include: a greeting song to orient the participant to the start of the session; singing of 1-3 preferred/chosen songs to address cognition and communication; two movement songs with instrument playing interventions to stimulate cognition and movement; songwriting for self-expression, cognitive, and emotional support; relaxation/mindfulness; a closing song to help the participant transition at the completion of the session, The music therapist also provides training to caregivers in techniques to utilize music for behavioral support. Twelve participants and their care partners will be randomized to receive a personalized music CD that they keep and can listen to as they wish.