Citation

Smith-Marchese K. Activ. Adapt. Aging 1994; 18(2): 41-55.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1994, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J016v18n02_04

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The purpose of this field research/case study was to design a music-participation event for moderately to severely impaired elderly diagnosed as having Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type (DAT). This study gives an overview of current knowledge of Alzheimer's Disease, covering its neurology, symptoms, progression, and symptom management. The music events, conducted on the Alzheimer's unit of a nursing home, involved ten (10) elderly persons whose physicians had diagnosed them-at the time of nursing home admission- as having DAT. The eight (8) women and two (2) men were directed to actively participate in twice-weekly musical events over a six-week period of time. Simple musical instruments, singing of familiar songs, and active manipulation of the hands, feet, and head of each subject, allowed directed and active participation in each musical event at their highest possible functioning level. Data analysis and clinical observations revealed an overall positive and measurable effect of participatory music on he subjects. Suggestions for further research include simultaneous studies of many such small groups in order to tap into what mental, physical, emotional and psychological functioning remains in this population of frail elderly.