Music Therapy and Caregivers

I recently gave a presentation about music therapy focused on caregivers for older adults.  I used this prezi as part of a broader discussion that included experiential activities such as a demonstration of progressive muscle relaxation to music and how to involve caregivers with their loved ones in singing and instrument playing with moments of structured improvisation.  While it is impossible to re-create the presentation here, I am posting this prezi for the benefit of those who attended the presentation.  In addition, here are a few good references in the research literature with helpful information about this topic:

Brotons, M., & Marti, P. (2003).  Music therapy with Alzheimer’s patients and their family caregivers: A pilot project.  Journal of Music Therapy, 40, 138-150.

Choi, Y. K. (2010).  The effect of music and progressive muscle relaxation on anxiety, fatigue, and quality of life in family caregivers of hospice patients.  Journal of Music Therapy, 47, 53-69.

Clair, A. A., & Ebberts, A. G. (1997).  The effects of music therapy on interactions between family caregivers and their care receivers with late stage dementia.  Journal of Music Therapy, 34, 148-164.

Clair, A. A., & Memmott, J. (2008).  Therapeutic uses of music with older adults (2^nd ed.).  Silver Spring, MD: American Music Therapy Association, Inc.

Hanser, S. B, Butterfield-Whitcomb, J., Kawata, M., & Collins, B. (2011).  Home-based music strategies with individuals who have dementia and their family caregivers.  Journal of Music Therapy, 48, 2-27.

Music Has Power in Senior Wellness and Healthcare