Assessment of Ability of Nursing Home Residents with Dementia to Imitate and Spontaneously Perform Rhythmic Patterns with Accents and Complex Rhythmic Structure

Abstract

Dementia is often seen as a tragic mental illness that is difficult for both those afflicted with it and their loved ones. Much research has been done to find solutions to either regain lost reality orientation or to maintain what has remained once dementia has been diagnosed. One promising tool that was successful was to use music, leading to many applications of music therapy. This study was conducted to add to the knowledge base of methods and techniques that have already been developed. The study focused on the ability for patients with dementia to process and perform rhythms that they heard in familiar songs.