Date of Award
2018
Document Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)
Department
Physician Assistant Studies
First Advisor
Vanessa Bester
Abstract
Dementia is an encompassing word that includes specific symptoms which alter a patient’s problem-solving ability, decision making capacity, and personality.1 Personality changes, otherwise known as Behavioral and Psychotic Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) can have negative impacts on caregivers and families. BPSD can include agitation, depression, elation, and hallucinations. Music therapy has been proposed as a non-pharmacologic treatment for BPSD in patients with dementia. This research is intended to identify whether or not music therapy decreases agitation in patients with dementia. Although evidence for efficacy varies, there are no side effects in the literature. Widespread use may provide an increase in QOL and a reduction in the use of antipsychotic medications in which overuse has been criticized.
Identifier
SC11.PAS.2018.Billhorn.C
Recommended Citation
Billhorn, Clinton, "Does music therapy decrease agitation in patients with dementia?" (2018). Theses and Graduate Projects. 363.
https://idun.augsburg.edu/etd/363