A new study reveals that music therapy can significantly ease distress in dementia patients hospitalized on wards. Using the MELODIC model—which places a dedicated music therapist on-site to deliver sessions and create personalized care plans—the intervention led to notable improvements in patient wellbeing.

The findings showed enhanced quality of life and reduced agitation, with no reported adverse effects. At just over £2,000 per month, this low-cost, scalable approach offers a compassionate alternative to psychotropic drugs in complex care settings.

Key Takeaways:

• Improved Wellbeing: Music therapy helped reduce distress and slightly improved quality of life.
• Affordable Care: At a modest cost, the program is both scalable and sustainable.
• Proven Safe: No adverse events were associated with the intervention.

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