Resources & references

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The purpose of our database is to provide an easy access to knowledge about music therapy and its application with a diverse array of clientele.  We therefore propose a selection of pertinent* references, however not exhaustive, given that each week more research and other information are published around the world. 

Note (*) : the Institute does not endorse any promotional content, publicity or donation requests that might be included in any of the references.

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30 results Clear all
Striking a Chord - Music Therapy at St. Martha's Hospital
2015
Type of reference
General information
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Nova Scotia Health Authority Page
Country
Canada

 Since late 2013, music therapist Tom Curry has provided individual and group based music therapy services at St. Martha's Regional in Antigonish, arranged through the Arts Health Antigonish (AHA!) community collaboration.

The effects of music therapy on engagement in family caregiver and care receiver couples with dementia
2002
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Alicia Ann Clair
Language
English
Source / Publisher
American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease & Other Dementias
Country
United States (USA)

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of caregiver-implemented music applications on engagement with their care receivers. Music therapy applications are effective in increasing mutual engagement in couples with dementia, and caregivers can effectively facilitate the engagement using music. Furthermore, once the engagement is established, it carries over into visitation without music.

The Impact of Group Music Therapy on Depression and Cognition in Elderly Persons With Dementia: A Randomized Controlled Study
2013
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Hsin Chu, Chyn-Yng Yang, Kuei-Ru Chou
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Biological research for Nursing
Country
Taiwan

The aims of this study were to determine the effectiveness of group music therapy for improving depression and delaying the deterioration of cognitive functions in elderly persons with dementia. The group music intervention is a noninvasive and inexpensive therapy that appeared to reduce elders’ depression.

Therapeutic Uses of Music with Older Adults. Second Edition
2008
Type of reference
Scientific publications
Author
Alicia Ann Clair, Jenny Memmott
Language
English
Source / Publisher
American Music Therapy Association
Country
United States (USA)

Written by experienced American music therapists, this book explores how music therapy can enhance the quality of life for older adults, including those with physical impairments, Parkinson’s, stroke, or dementia. It also offers strategies for caregivers to use music in supporting physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being.

Tous en choeur - Épisode 6 - La musique comme thérapie
2025
Type of reference
General information
Language
French
Subtitle
French
Source / Publisher
AMI
Country
Canada

Watch the 6th episode of a documentary series hosted by Gregory Charles about the therapeutic effect of choir singing and music among adults living with Alzheimer's disease. Two sequences (at 4:05 and 11:30) feature a exploratory group music therapy session with dyads composed of 4 choir members and their caregivers, as well as interviews with Suzanne Caron, President, and Tanya Lavoie, music therapist, from the National Music Therapy Institute. Note: this video is available with closed captioning and a transcript.

When words don’t come easy
2024
Type of reference
General information
Author
Hayley Antipas
Language
English
Source / Publisher
Australian Music Therapy Association
Country
Australia

This article describes the experience of a registered music therapist who offered music therapy services to an older adult with early onset dementia. It provides clinical examples of what music therapy is and how it can improve the quality of life of older adults.