Music Interventions at Memory Care Facilities in Hamilton County
Start Date
April 2026
Location
2nd floor - Library
Abstract
Music Interventions at Memory Care Facilities in Hamilton County
Dementia is a term that describes a decline in mental ability that interferes with one's daily life. It can present with a variety of different symptoms but is most notably known for a loss or decline in memory. Other symptoms include agitation, depression, anxiety, and wandering. Music-based interventions including receptive music listening, individualized music therapy, group sessions, and caregiver singing have gained attention as low-cost approaches that seem to reduce the negative symptoms of dementia and promote emotional wellbeing. Music based interventions have been shown to reduce agitation, improve mood, promote situational awareness, and enhance social interactions, while also benefiting caregivers and staff in residential care settings. This study focuses on long-term care facilities in Hamilton County, Ohio that provide memory care to residents. Facilities include assisted living, nursing homes, and full memory care facilities. Data will be collected on how frequently these activities occur, the types of interventions provided, and whether they are done individually or in groups. To collect this data, activity directors will respond to a survey asking about their current music intervention practices. Results will be shared to show how current facilities in our area are utilizing music interventions.
Music Interventions at Memory Care Facilities in Hamilton County
2nd floor - Library
Music Interventions at Memory Care Facilities in Hamilton County
Dementia is a term that describes a decline in mental ability that interferes with one's daily life. It can present with a variety of different symptoms but is most notably known for a loss or decline in memory. Other symptoms include agitation, depression, anxiety, and wandering. Music-based interventions including receptive music listening, individualized music therapy, group sessions, and caregiver singing have gained attention as low-cost approaches that seem to reduce the negative symptoms of dementia and promote emotional wellbeing. Music based interventions have been shown to reduce agitation, improve mood, promote situational awareness, and enhance social interactions, while also benefiting caregivers and staff in residential care settings. This study focuses on long-term care facilities in Hamilton County, Ohio that provide memory care to residents. Facilities include assisted living, nursing homes, and full memory care facilities. Data will be collected on how frequently these activities occur, the types of interventions provided, and whether they are done individually or in groups. To collect this data, activity directors will respond to a survey asking about their current music intervention practices. Results will be shared to show how current facilities in our area are utilizing music interventions.
