An Analysis of Sensory Stimulation Interventions in Music Therapy for Adults Living with Dementia

Four Case Studies

Authors

  • Shelby Shrader Shenandoah University, Winchester, Virginia, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15845/voices.v24i3.4007

Keywords:

sensory stimulation; case report; dementia; music therapy intervention

Abstract

In this case report, four music therapists were observed and interviewed to identify the primary goals, characteristics, and perceived benefits of sensory stimulation interventions for adults living with dementia. Cases were described with regards to participant characteristics, goals, session context, ways participants were engaged, characteristics of the music, and benefits. Primary goals ranged from “any kind of response” to “to maintain the cognitive function of periodic orientation.” All cases included the use of receptive music therapy experiences with the use of live music via voice and a stringed instrument. Perceived benefits ranged from “increased alertness” to “increased tolerance of stimulation.” Analysis of these cases revealed a range of approaches to sensory stimulation rather than a single goal or intervention strategy. These diverse conceptualizations highlight the need for a stronger theoretical foundation, as well as further research, to enhance the meaningfulness of this intervention.

Author Biography

Shelby Shrader, Shenandoah University, Winchester, Virginia, USA

Shelby Shrader, MMT, MT-BC is a board-certified music therapist based in Richmond, Virginia. She currently works in hospice care and is an internship director. She holds her BM in music therapy from Radford University and MMT in music therapy from Shenandoah University. She is chair of the Virginia State Task Force for Music Therapy and the Mid-Atlantic Region (MAR) representative for the Reimbursement Committee of the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA).

Author photo 4007_Shrader

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Published

2024-11-01

How to Cite

Shrader, S. (2024). An Analysis of Sensory Stimulation Interventions in Music Therapy for Adults Living with Dementia: Four Case Studies. Voices: A World Forum for Music Therapy, 24(3). https://doi.org/10.15845/voices.v24i3.4007

Issue

Section

Research