The Connection Between Music Therapy and Language Abilities in People with Dementia

Due to the advancements of technology and the overall improved quality of life within society, the general life expectancy has increased. As a result, one of the serious leading age-related conditions in the population is dementia. Memory loss, agitation, loss of ability to communicate, and anxiety are a few symptoms that negatively impact those who have dementia. Therefore, it is essential to identify practical and cost-friendly treatment options for those symptoms. The purpose of this paper is to explore music therapy on language functioning in individuals who suffer from dementia. Few studies have addressed this connection, so this literature review was written to summarize the findings thus far. Surprisingly, evidence was found that supports the argument that music therapy may improve language functions in patients with dementia. Afterwards, a survey was conducted to analyze the application of music therapy in elderly care facilities. These discoveries were then presented through an opinion piece ending with recommendations to decrease the suffering of people with dementia.