The effects of music on aged Alzheimer patients in a long-term care facility
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5216/ree.v14i2.12532Keywords:
Health of the Elderly, Alzheimer Disease, Geriatric NursingAbstract
http://dx.doi.org/10.5216/ree.v14i2.12532
This descriptive-exploratory study was performed using a qualitative approach with the objective to describe the effect of music on aged Alzheimer patients living in a long-term care facility. The participants were five aged Alzheimer patients who participated in musical sessions. Data collection was performed through semi-structured interviews using an instrument to evaluate the aged patients, as well as a field diary. Thematic content analysis was performed. The results showed the beneficial effects of music in the current lives of the aged patients, allowing them to recover memories related to relatives, places and lived situations; to their musical memory and recent memory; in evoking feelings; making facial expressions; and on their pain control. In conclusion, music provides aged patients with a sense of wellbeing, pain relief, relaxation, entertainment and comfort.