Dementia is a neurological condition that has detrimental effects for various aspects of life, including physical, economic, and social impacts, as well as significant impacts on those who provide care. There is an increasing need to find suitable non-pharmacological interventions to help manage the condition, improve well-being, and to provide support for caregivers. Music interventions are becoming increasingly popular due to their capacity to evoke emotions and influence mood. This study explored the impact of using live music as a way to help manage dementia symptoms, improve wellbeing, and increase support for caregivers. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with care home workers, music providers, and family carers. Nine interviews involving nine participants were analysed thematically. Improved emotional and physical wellbeing and improvements in relationships were found to be especially important, although firm conclusions about the specific benefits for dementia patients remain elusive. This study also found that through exposure to live music, there were significant positive benefits for the carers and music providers of people living with dementia. The rapid growth of dementia warrants further study into the effects of live music as a tool for both dementia patients, and their caregivers.
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