A new study suggests that music therapy could help reduce distress among dementia patients in NHS hospital wards, offering a promising alternative to medication.
Researchers from Anglia Ruskin University and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust trialed a live music therapy program called MELODIC across two NHS dementia wards. The results showed improvements in patient wellbeing and a reduction in disruptive behaviors.
The study, published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, involved embedding trained music therapists directly into hospital care teams. Therapists provided personalized music sessions, developed care plans, and advised families and carers on how to use music to support daily care routines.
“People with dementia on inpatient mental health wards often experience very high levels of distress, and staff are under immense pressure to manage this in ways that are safe and compassionate,” said lead researcher Naomi Thompson of Anglia Ruskin University. “Our study showed that the MELODIC tool can be used effectively in these challenging settings.”
Data from the pilot indicated a slight improvement in patients’ quality-of-life scores and a reduction in distress symptoms and disruptive behavior. While there was a small increase in agitation scores, there were no incidents of harm or adverse events linked to the therapy.
The MELODIC approach was developed with direct input from 49 healthcare professionals, patients, and families, who shared their experiences of managing distress in dementia care. The cost of the program is also relatively low—around £2,025 per month for a therapist, plus £400 for equipment—making it a potentially scalable solution for the NHS.
Dr Ben Underwood, Research and Development Director at Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Some people with dementia can become so confused and distressed that hospital admission is necessary. Managing this distress can be very difficult for both families and staff. This study shows that music could be a powerful tool to improve the care experience.”
The pilot was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Researchers hope the success of the initial trial will lead to wider adoption of music therapy across the NHS.
