The effect of music on repetitive disruptive vocalizations of persons with dementia.
OBJECTIVE
This study examined the effect of classical music and favorite music on the repetitive disruptive vocalizations of long-term-care facility (LTCF) residents with dementia of the Alzheimer's type (DAT).


METHODS
Three subjects diagnosed with DAT who had a history of repetitive disruptive vocalizations were selected for the study. Three single-subject withdrawal designs (ABA, ACA, and ABCA) were used to assess subjects' repetitive disruptive vocalizations during each phase: no intervention (A); relaxing, classical music (B); and favorite music (C).


RESULTS
Classical music and favorite music significantly decreased the number of vocalizations in two of the three subjects (p < .05).


CONCLUSIONS
These findings support a method that was effective in decreasing the disruptive vocalization pattern common in those with DAT in the least restrictive manner, as mandated by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987.
Casby
J A
JA
California Children's Service, Health Department, San Jose 95128.
Holm
M B
MB
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D003704:Dementia / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009147:Music Therapy; D012866:Skilled Nursing Facilities; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014705:Verbal Behavior