Does music intervention relieve depression or anxiety in people living with dementia? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: This study aimed to summarize the available evidence on music intervention alleviating depression or anxiety in dementia. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed to analyze the effects of music intervention on depression or anxiety. Subgroups were created to explore the effect of intervention period, duration, and frequency on efficacy. The effect size was reported as a mean standardized difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The analysis included 19 articles involving 614 samples. Thirteen studies for relieving depression revealed that, with an increase in intervention period, the efficacy decreased and then increased, whereas with an increase of intervention duration, the effect became better. A weekly intervention is ideal. Seven studies verifying the impact on anxiety relief revealed that the effect of intervention within 12 wk is significant; with an increase of intervention duration, the effect became better. A weekly intervention is ideal. Collaborative analysis showed that long low-frequency interventions are more efficient than short high-frequency interventions. Conclusions: Music intervention can relieve depression or anxiety in people living with dementia. Weekly short interventions of more than 45 min are effective for emotional regulation. Future research should concentrate on severe dementia and follow-up impact.