396 Music use for dementia care in urban elder care communities in Northeast Kansas

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: Research supports the use of music to improve the care and well-being of adults living with dementia; however, the practice and implementation of music in elder care communities is not regulated. The goal of this qualitative study was to survey elder care communities in Northeast Kansas to determine the use of music with people living with dementia. Methods/Study Population: We interviewed staff (n = 10) at five elder care communities in the Kansas City Metro area and observed musical activities and artifacts in shared living spaces within each community. Interview questions included details of the frequency and purpose of using music, who determined which music to use, and any effects, positive or negative, the interviewee believed to be associated with the use of music. Musical events, visiting musicians or music therapists leading group sing-alongs were observed at two communities, and music-related activities led by staff were observed at two others. Results/Anticipated Results: Music was used in some way at each of the five communities. Each location had recorded music available to residents in the shared living spaces, and most had a piano in the main lounge area. During the sing-along and music-related activities, residents were observed singing along to songs from memory, engaging with one another and the group leader and smiling. Staff employed by each community varied in their level of musical training and experience, from none to a full-time music therapist in residence. Staff interviewed said they believed music was helpful to aid memory recall, reduce anxiety, and to engage interest. Interestingly, a music therapist at one site also described how music during mealtimes created too much of a distraction for residents and interfered with dietary care. Discussion/Significance of Impact: It is clear from both the staff interviews and direct observations of musical activities that music is important to consider for people living with dementia in care communities. Guidelines for implementation and minimum standards would be helpful to ensure all care community residents can experience benefits highlighted by staff in this study.