The rising number of people with dementia shows a need for non-pharmacological treatment options focused on the people and their needs. Music therapy is a psychosocial therapy that can address people's individual physical, social and particular psychological needs. From the 161 music therapists registered in Austria (as of 11 February 2023), only 8.7 % focus on people with dementia. There is no national freelance or institutional supply system. With the lack of financial support from health insurance companies, it’s difficult for people with dementia to take advantage of this form of psychosocial therapy.
The purpose of this graduation thesis is to show in which way changes for people with dementia can be achieved with the help of music therapy and how they are expressed. The opportunities as well as the challenges of music therapy for this target groups should be considered.
To answer the research questions, expert interviews with seven music therapists are conducted to inquire their therapy methods and their experience with people with dementia. The interview recordings are transcribed and evaluated, using the content analysis of Mayring.
Music improves the quality of life, confidence and the sense of belonging. The therapy focuses on the physical, emotional and social needs of the clients. However, the therapists surveyed did not consciously initiate treatment in the form of pain relief or the control of hormonal balance. Music therapy has a positive impact not only on the clients, but also on the families, the therapists themselves, the work life of the nursing staff and other professional groups of therapists.