MUSIC THERAPY AS A COMPLEMENTARY INTERVENTION FOR SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

Abstract

Alzheimer disease (AD) is a Progressive neurodegenerative condition and the Leading cause of dementia in the elderly, characterized by cognitive deterioration, memory loss, and severe changes in behavior and mood. Given the increase in life expectancy and the limitations of conventional pharmacological treatment in reversing neuronal death, alternative and non-invasive interventions have been widely sought. The present study aims to analyze the efficacy of music therapy as a complementary therapeutic instrument in the symptomatic management of AD. This is a qualitative and descriptive literature review based on studies published in the last two decades. The results show that musical intervention acts directly on cerebral neuro Chemical modulation, stimulating the release of dopamine and serotonin, and reducing plasma cortisol levels. Furthermore, music stimulates neuronal plasticity, acts as a non-verbal communication pathway, and facilitates mnemonic retrieval, significantly reducing anxiety, depression, and aggressiveness. It is concluded that music therapy is a low-cost, non-pharmacological therapeutic tool, free of adverse effects and highly effective, essential as an adjunct in controlling symptoms and promoting the quality of life of patients affected by Alzheimer's.