Movement and Music Intervention for Individuals With Dementia

Dementia impacts 5%-7% of individuals >60 years old. It impacts the person's ability to perform work, care for him/herself and ultimately leads to physical disability. There is a high caregiver burden associated with dementia and many individuals require care in a long-term care facility. There is some emerging evidence that music based interventions may have a protective effect on the brain in those with dementia. There is also evidence that doing activities that engage the brain through music are beneficial. This study seeks to investigate the potential benefits of a music based intervention for individuals with dementia. The study aims to recruit individuals with a diagnosis of dementia. Once enrolled participants will undergo assessment of walking, balance and cognition and then be asked to participate either in a dance class or to listen to live music. After 6 weeks and again at the end of the study (after 12 weeks) participants will undergo assessments of walking, balance and cognition.

Inclusion criteria

• Diagnosis of dementia
• Mini-Mental State Examination score > 9
• Age > 60 years
• Able to follow simple instructions

Exclusion criteria

• Unable to walk 10 feet unassisted
• Presence of orthopedic disorder that impacts walking
• Presence of other neurologic diagnosis that impacts cognitive or motor function such as stroke, Parkinson disease or traumatic brain injury