Effects of ambient baroque music on patients with dementia

Objective: To determine the effect of ambient baroque music on the behaviour of patients with dementia in a nursing home. Method: An observational study involving 14 dementia patients in a nursing home for six weeks. We measured adverse patient behaviours such as episodes of calling out, wandering, aggression, talking to self, verbal abuse and signs of agitation, as well as need for night sedation. Results: Adverse behaviours decreased by over 40% during the intervention period. Conclusions: A strong positive result was obtained in this pilot study. Potential benefits of the intervention are considerable as it is non-invasive, cost-effective and pleasant for patients and staff alike. Larger, randomised controlled studies are warranted.