Music Therapy 101 for Alzheimer’s Disease: A Review of Current Trends and Future Directions

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses significant challenges to individuals, families, and healthcare systems globally. Currently, there is no cure for AD, and available therapies focus on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. Given the limitations of pharmacological treatments in halting the progression of AD, there is increasing interest in non-pharmacological interventions such as music therapy. This review explores the therapeutic benefits of music therapy for AD patients, evaluating empirical evidence from clinical studies and exploring the underlying mechanisms that contribute to its effectiveness. Additionally, this review discusses the practical implications of integrating music therapy into treatment plans. It identifies future research directions to understand further and enhance its impact on AD patients’ cognitive functioning and quality of life.