Music Therapy Offers Hope for Dementia Patients

Novel approach aims to reduce distress without medication

A pioneering music therapy program is showing promise in enhancing care for NHS dementia patients, potentially offering a vital alternative to psychotropic medications for those experiencing significant distress.

MELODIC Pilot Yields Promising Results

Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) and Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT) have successfully trialled MELODIC, a music therapy intervention, on two NHS dementia wards. The study, published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, involved integrating a music therapist into ward routines, conducting tailored music sessions, and creating personalized musical care plans.

The approach, which includes singing, playing, or listening to music, also guides families and carers on how to incorporate music into daily care. Initial data indicated a modest improvement in patients’ quality of life and a decrease in the severity of distress symptoms and disruptive behaviours, although agitation levels saw a slight increase.

Crucially, the pilot reported no rise in reported incidents or adverse events linked to the music therapy, a significant finding for mental health dementia wards where research opportunities are limited.

“People with dementia on inpatient mental health wards are often experiencing very high levels of distress, and staff are under immense pressure to manage this in ways that are safe and compassionate.”

—Naomi Thompson, Lead Author and Researcher, Cambridge Institute for Music Therapy Research at Anglia Ruskin University

Naomi Thompson added that the MELODIC tool demonstrated its effectiveness in these challenging environments, providing an alternative to medication for managing severe distress.

Co-Designed Intervention Proves Cost-Effective

The intervention’s development was informed by extensive interviews with 49 healthcare professionals, patients, and their families. This collaborative design process, involving clinicians, researchers, and individuals with lived experience, has resulted in a financially viable model. The monthly cost for the therapist is approximately £2,025, with an initial outlay of £400 for equipment, suggesting a scalable and affordable solution.

“I am very excited that it may now be possible for NHS staff to improve their experience on dementia wards using the power of music, and we look forward to working with ARU to develop this further.”

—Dr Ben Underwood, Research and Development Director and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist at CPFT

Dr Ben Underwood highlighted the difficulties in managing distress within ward settings, emphasizing the potential of music to positively impact the experiences of patients, families, and staff.

The study received funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).